Col (Dr.) Gunjan Malhotra (Retd.) Senior Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Veteran Doctor
A doctor cuts through the confusion
Hormonal birth control has been part of women’s lives for over 60 years. Reliable, reversible, convenient. For many, it’s been life-changing.
But here’s the question I hear constantly: “Is the pill giving me cancer?”
After decades of research involving millions of women, we have a clearer picture. The short answer?
Yes, there is an increase in breast and cervical cancer risk with current or recent use, but we need to weigh the risks versus benefits on an individual basis.
Breast Cancer and Hormonal Birth Control
Women currently using or who have recently used hormonal contraceptives have a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to women who have never used them.
This pattern shows up with all types of hormonal contraception. Combined pills, progesterone-only pills, and even lower-dose modern formulations. The increase is small and declines after you stop, but it’s consistent across large studies.
For younger women, the absolute risk remains low. But the relative increase is real during active use.
Cervical Cancer and Long-Term Use
Long-term use of oral contraceptives (typically five years or more) increases cervical cancer risk. The longer you use it, the higher the risk climbs. Stop using it, and the risk gradually drops.
Nearly all cervical cancers stem from persistent HPV infection. The pill doesn’t cause HPV, but prolonged hormone exposure may influence how HPV-related changes progress in cervical cells.
Prevention: Where Your Power Lies
Instead of worrying, act.
Get the HPV Vaccine I push hard for HPV vaccination between ages 9-14 for both boys and girls. This produces the strongest immune response and works best before any sexual exposure. You can also vaccinate later, but earlier is exponentially better.
Screen for Cervical Cancer
- Ages 25-65: Liquid-based cytology every 3 years (along with HPV DNA typing)
- Over 65: If you’ve had consistent normal results, you may be able to stop
- Individualisation of plans for earlier onset of sexual activity or high risk groups
Screen for Breast Cancer
- Under 40: Focus on breast self-awareness and clinical exams
- Ages 40-44: Consider starting annual mammograms
- Ages 45-54: Get annual mammograms
- 55+: Switch to every 2 years, or continue yearly if you prefer
Consider BRCA Testing If you have a first-degree relative with a BRCA mutation, strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or got chest radiation before age 30, I want you in for genetic counseling and testing.
The Bottom Line
Yes, combined oral contraceptives may slightly increase breast and cervical cancer risk during active use. But this doesn’t stay a hard and fast rule for every patient on hormonal contraception to develop breast and/or cervical cancer.
What I tell every patient:
Don’t use contraception on autopilot. Review it at different life stages. Know your family history. Get vaccinated. Follow screening schedules. Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Cancer risk is multifactorial, but prevention is powerful and largely in your control.
When you’re informed, proactive, and regularly screened, you shift from fear to action. And that’s where real protection lives.
