Hormonal Birth Control: Who Can and Can't Use It

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The following table lists the recommendations and contraindications for hormonal methods of birth control.

What to consider when using hormonal methods of birth control
Consideration Combination pills, skin patch, or vaginal ring (estrogen plus progestin) Progestin-only pills, implant, or shot
Recommended for women who:
  • Are healthy
  • Are breast-feeding (6 weeks after delivery)
  • Smoke (if younger than 35) without other health risks
  • Have diabetes (if younger than 35) without complications
  • Have controlled high blood pressure and do not smoke
  • Have controlled cholesterol levels
  • Have had an abortion
  • Cannot take estrogen. Health risks related to estrogen use are not present with progestin-only pills.
  • Are breast-feeding
  • Have migraines with aura
  • Have high blood pressure or coronary artery disease
  • Smoke and are older than 35
  • Have sickle cell disease
Not recommended for women who:
  • Are or may be pregnant
  • Have active breast cancer or history in past 5 years
  • Have undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Have active hepatitis
  • Have active colitis
  • Are taking certain medicines (check with your doctor)
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: May 21, 2010
Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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