Well, I suppose it depends who you ask. I went to the website for Ortho Tri Cyclen and pulled up the full prescribing information (you know, the page with tiny print and tons of confusing information about the drug in question). Anyway, in talking about oral contraceptives and cancer, there seems to be some confusion. Apparently some studies suggest an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly at a younger age and with prolonged use. But “the majority” of studies found no increased risk. As for cervical cancer, the language is actually amusing. Some studies suggest increased risk, which might be “due to factors other than oral contraceptives. There is insufficent evidence to rule out the possiblity that pills may cause such cancers.” I love that sentence. I read it two or three times before getting that it meant that the Pill might cause cervical cancer, not that there wasn’t enough evidence to say it did. LOL.
Anyway, none of that info is on the main website, only in the PDF of scientific jargon.
On the main website, they even go so far as to tell you about the “other health benefits” of the pill.
I would suggest that until (and unless) many more people in this country reject the contraceptive mentality, we will never have solid research on this topic. Studies are funded by people/companies with interests, and when the study doesn’t match the interest, it doesn’t always find it’s way to publication. Now, I know that’s cynical, but it’s also true. It isn’t always the case, but it does happen.
Toni Wescler talks about health benefits of NFP in her book “Taking Charge of Your Fertility”. It’s a secular book (she tells you to use a condom during fertile phases if you’re trying to avoid), but there is a lot of good basic information.
MJ
