Blood Pressure and the Contraceptive Pill: What’s the Link?

The combined contraceptive pill (also known as “the Pill”) is an effective way to prevent pregnancy. That’s why millions of women rely on it every year.

But the pill, like all medication, comes with side effects and potential health risks. One of those is an increased risk of developing high blood pressure. 

It’s important you know the facts, so you can decide if the pill is the right contraceptive method for you. So, in this article, we answer some commonly asked questions about the link between the pill and high blood pressure.

What’s The Link Between the Pill and High Blood Pressure?

The combined contraceptive pill contains the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. And it’s the increase in oestrogen that can cause blood pressure to rise.

While it’s not fully understood, one theory is that oestrogen recruits the body’s blood pressure regulators into producing more hormones that constrict blood vessels – raising blood pressure in some patients. 

Genetics may also play a role, making certain people more susceptible.

Does the Pill Cause High Blood Pressure?

The pill itself does not cause high blood pressure. But it does increase your risk of developing it. This means you’re more likely to get high blood pressure than women not taking the pill. 

Of course, this depends on your overall health and whether you have any other risk factors for high blood pressure. For example, women who smoke and are very overweight are more at risk. 

If you are in good health, then you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. 

Can I Take the Pill if I Have High Blood Pressure?

If you already have high blood pressure, then it’s not recommended you take the pill. It can cause blood pressure to increase further. 

Before you’re prescribed the pill, your doctor will assess your medical history and current wellbeing to make sure that it is suitable for you. This includes measuring your blood pressure. 

If it’s too high, or you have a history of heart problems or blood clots, a healthcare professional will advise you not to take the pill. 

Can I Take the Mini Pill If I Have High Blood Pressure?

Yes. The mini pill is a good alternative if you’re unable to take the combined pill. This is because it doesn’t contain oestrogen, the hormone that can cause blood pressure to increase.

Unlike the combined pill, which contains the hormones oestrogen and progestogen, the mini pill is progestogen only. So it’s suitable for women with high blood pressure, including those over 35 who smoke. 

What Other Options Are There if I Can’t Take the Pill?

If the combined pill is not suitable for you, all combined hormonal contraceptives containing oestrogen won’t be suitable either. This includes the contraceptive patch and the vaginal ring.  

Luckily, there are plenty of other alternatives. You can still use progesterone-only hormonal contraceptives, including: 

• The progesterone-only pill (mini pill) 
• The contraceptive injection 
• The implant 
• The IUS (hormonal coil)
• The IUD (copper coil) 
• Condoms 
• Diaphragm or cap 

With over 15 methods of contraception available, choosing the right method can be overwhelming. If you need more information on the different types of contraception, you can read our article to help you choose the right contraceptive method for you.

How Do I Know If I Have High Blood Pressure?

Unfortunately, it’s difficult to tell if you have high blood pressure because it doesn’t have any symptoms. To find out, a doctor, nurse or pharmacist will have to measure your blood pressure.

A doctor will measure your blood pressure before giving you the pill. They’ll then measure it after the first three, six and 12 months of you taking it. 

After that, you’ll have a yearly check-up to make sure nothing has changed.

What Happens if I Do Have High Blood Pressure?

If you have high blood pressure,  it’s important to get treatment for it to get it under control. Your doctor will prescribe you with high blood pressure medication to manage it.

If uncontrolled, high blood pressure can lead to serious complications, including: 

• Heart disease 
• Heart attack 
• Stroke
• Kidney disease 

Key Takeaways

• The combined contraceptive pill, which contains oestrogen, can increase the risk of high blood pressure.
• Women who smoke, are overweight, or have other risk factors are more likely to develop high blood pressure while taking the combined contraceptive pill.
• The combined pill is not recommended for women with high blood pressure, as it may further increase it.
• The mini pill, which contains only progestogen, is a safer option for women with high blood pressure because it doesn’t contain oestrogen.
• Regular blood pressure monitoring is necessary when taking the pill. If high blood pressure is detected, you’ll need treatment to avoid complications like heart disease or stroke.

References

Cameron, N.A., Blyler, C.A. and Bello, N.A. (2023). Oral Contraceptive Pills and Hypertension: A Review of Current Evidence and Recommendations. Hypertension, 80(5), pp.924–935. doi:https://doi.org/10.1161/hypertensionaha.122.20018.

ScienceDaily. (n.d.). Chronic estrogen exposure linked to high blood pressure. [online] Available at: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/05/110526114533.htm.

Mayo clinic. (2022, August 9). Secondary Hypertension – Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/secondary-hypertension/symptoms-causes/syc-20350679

Blood Pressure UK (2021). Blood Pressure UK. [online] www.bloodpressureuk.org. Available at: https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/your-blood-pressure/understanding-your-blood-pressure/what-is-high-blood-pressure/.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published on July 23, 2019. It has been updated for accuracy, readability and comprehensiveness.

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