Are all kinds of birth control pills appropriate for everyone?

No. Your doctor will ask about your medical history and any medications you take to determine which birth control pill is right for you.

Your doctor may discourage use of combination birth control pills if you:

• Have just given birth
• Are older than age 35 and smoke
• Have poorly controlled high blood pressure
• Have a blood clotting disorder or a history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
• Have a history of breast cancer
• Have a history of stroke or heart disease
• Have diabetes-related complications
• Have liver or gallbladder disease
• Have a history of migraines with aura
• Have unexplained uterine bleeding
• Will be immobilized for a prolonged period due to major surgery
• Take St. John's wort, or anticonvulsant or anti-tuberculous agents

Your doctor may discourage use of the minipill if you:

• Have breast cancer
• Have certain liver diseases
• Have unexplained uterine bleeding
• Take anticonvulsant or anti-tuberculous agents