Q&A with Dr. Cullins

Q & A with Dr. Cullins: Birth Control

  • +-

    Does the pill cause birth defects when a woman stops using them?

    No. The birth control pill has been on the market for more than 40 years. It has been under constant scientific scrutiny and is one of the most carefully studied medications ever used.

    There is no evidence that the pill puts women at risk of having a child with birth defects — either while she is using it or after she stops using it. Birth defects do, however, increase with increasing maternal age, so women who are planning to have children later in life may want to consider preconception planning to evaluate their risks.

Published: 10.08.04 | Updated: 03.01.07

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.

Find A Health Center

or

Search

Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc.

1-800-230-PLAN