mortality

Last reviewed 03/2021

The risk of complications with the combined pill increase steeply in smokers over the age of 35 years so that other methods of contraception are recommended. In patients aged 35 - 44 years, the mortality rates are:

• combined pill users 3.9
• non users 0.5
• pregnancy 58.0
• all stated mortality rates per 100 000

Users of low oestrogen pills have a higher relative risk of myocardial infarction and haemorrhagic stroke - due to the higher level of progesterone - but a reduced risk of cerebral thrombosis.