{"id":7932,"date":"2024-11-12T15:32:40","date_gmt":"2024-11-12T15:32:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/go.simpleonlinepharmacy.co.uk\/uncategorized\/https-www-simpleonlinepharmacy-co-uk-health-advice-blood-pressure-and-the-contraceptive-pill\/"},"modified":"2026-06-11T16:39:06","modified_gmt":"2026-06-11T16:39:06","slug":"blood-pressure-and-the-contraceptive-pill","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.simpleonlinepharmacy.co.uk\/health-advice\/contraceptive-birth-control\/blood-pressure-and-the-contraceptive-pill\/","title":{"rendered":"Blood Pressure and the Contraceptive Pill: What\u2019s the Link?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The combined contraceptive pill<\/a> (also known as \u201cthe Pill\u201d) is an effective way to prevent pregnancy. That\u2019s why millions of women rely on it every year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Does the Pill Cause High Blood Pressure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The pill itself does not cause high blood pressure. But it does increase your risk of developing it. This means you\u2019re more likely to get high blood pressure than women not taking the pill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are in good health, then you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I Take the Pill if I Have High Blood Pressure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you already have high blood pressure, then it\u2019s not recommended you take the pill. It can cause blood pressure to increase further. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before you\u2019re 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If it\u2019s too high, or you have a history of heart problems or blood clots, a healthcare professional will advise you not to take the pill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I Take the Mini Pill If I Have High Blood Pressure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Yes. The mini pill<\/a> is a good alternative if you\u2019re unable to take the combined pill. This is because it doesn’t contain oestrogen, the hormone that can cause blood pressure to increase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unlike the combined pill, which contains the hormones oestrogen and progestogen, the mini pill is progestogen only. So it\u2019s suitable for women with high blood pressure, including those over 35 who smoke. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Other Options Are There if I Can\u2019t Take the Pill?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If the combined pill is not suitable for you, all combined hormonal contraceptives containing oestrogen won\u2019t be suitable either. This includes the contraceptive patch and the vaginal ring.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Luckily, there are plenty of other alternatives. You can still use progesterone-only hormonal contraceptives, including: <\/p>\n\n\n\n