Dr Oz: Extended Cycle Pill vs IUD vs Birth Control Pill: What’s Best?

Dr Oz: Birth Control Pill Benefits & Side Effects

Dr Oz did a show about Birth Control Preventing Cancer.  You read the studies that taking the birth control pill may prevent certain types of cancer, but you want to know which is the best pill to take for you and what are the side effects. Do other forms of contraception help prevent cancer as well? On today’s show, Dr Oz is joined by ObGyns, Dr. Carolyn Westhoff and Dr. Judith Wolf, to discuss the different forms of contraception and their side effects.

Dr Oz: The Pill Benefits

-effective method of birth control

-regulates cycles and make periods lighter
-less cramping
-decreased acne
-decreased mood swings
-prevents anemia
-take regular birth control pill to prevent cancer of the uterus and colon
-benefits kick in early (within a year or two)
-use birth control pill for 5 years or more, anytime in your life, for substantial benefits

Dr Oz: Extended Cycle Pill

The extended cycle pill stops period for months at a time. According to doctors, there is no danger in ceasing your menstrual cycle for an extended period of time. The only detriment is if you go through premature menopause, which will cause bone loss and hot flashes. Otherwise, extended cycle pills pose no threats to your health.

Dr Oz: IUD (Intrauterine Device)

-the medicated IUD seems to prevent cancer of the uterine lining (endometrial cancer.)

-there is no evidence that the IUD prevents ovarian cancer

If you’re age 35-50, you’ve had kids and you have other symptoms such as acne and irregular bleeding, you should at least try it out. Dr Oz stated that he was convinced this may a good thing. Discuss concerns and options with your doctor.