Overview

This report evaluates the strength and significance of evidence linking use of combined oral contraceptives to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in women. It also aims to determine whether the risk of disease is influenced by the oestrogen or progestogen content of different preparations. The experts also considered evidence that other factors, such as smoking, hypertension, diabetes, age, and family history might influence the risk of cardiovascular disease in users of combined oral contraceptives. In view of major changes in the hormonal content of these contraceptive and prescribing patterns of providers, the assessment concentrates on data collected after 1980. The report concludes that mortality rates from cardiovascular disease are extremely low among women of reproductive age, and that the added risk of using steroid contraceptives is also very low in users who do not smoke or have other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. A final section places these risks in perspective, and offers advice to providers of family planning services when helping women to make informed choices about the use of hormonal contraceptives.

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