Birth control pills can increase the blood pressure. The risk of high blood pressure due to birth control pills increases the older the user becomes and the longer she uses them. Women above the age of 35, women who are overweight and women who smoke are generally more at risk. Women who have a past history of high blood pressure or who have a family history of high blood pressure are also at risk.

In general, birth-controls pills consist of a mixture of a hormone called estrogen and progesterone, both of which are produced naturally in the female body and are related to the menstrual cycle. There is also a type of birth-control known as the “mini-pill” which contains progesterone only. These hormones are needed for the contraceptive actions of the pill, but they do carry several risks.

Research has shown that these hormones raise blood pressure, because they have an effect on the blood vessels. This has only been seen in some women, not all, so before going on the pill women should consult their doctor. They should also have their blood pressure checked regularly after going on the pill.