Oral Contraceptives

Abstract

Cellular changes in the pituitary gland, ovaries, endometrial glands and stroma, and endocervix have been demonstrated following the use of oral contraceptives. There is no conclusive evidence of thyroidal or adrenal alteration, nor is there direct evidence that the estrogen or progestin initiates carcinoma of the breast, endometrium or cervix in the human female. Contraindications to use of these agents include malignancy of the breast or reproductive tract, incomplete epiphyseal closure, hepatic dysfunction, and a history of a thromboembolic process or cerebrovascular accident.