Product News and Recalls

Blog questions interpretation of birth control study

An entry on re:Cycling, the blog of the Society for Menstrual Cycle Research, mentions a recent study that found short-term methods of birth control – such as birth control pills, patches and vaginal rings — have a higher failure rate than long-term methods such as an IUD or skin implant.

The study by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis involved more than 7,500 participants who were given the option to choose a range of contraceptives with all costs covered.

Researchers found that women using the short-term methods were 20 times more likely to have an unintended pregnancy than those using the longer-acting methods.

A number of studies have indicated that popular types of birth control pills containing the compound drospirenone – including Yasmin, Yaz, Beyaz and Ocella – carry up to three times the risk of potentially fatal blood clots as other pills on the market.

But the blog entry points out that some longer-term methods come with side effects as well, and questions the researcher’s assumptions that cost is the only factor dissuading women from choosing them as their preferred birth control method.

The blog entry proposes more studies about birth control methods employing fertility awareness education for women.

Patients should consult their doctors before making any changes in their medication. A consultation with a Beyaz lawyer is also important if there are significant injuries.

See the blog entry here:

https://menstruationresearch.org/blog/