Oral contraceptives are 99 percent effective

According to a paper published in the British Medical Journal. This British study followed 28,800 Pill users and 17,300 non-users for up to 39 years.

The result is that oral contraceptives are extremely effective. Taken consistently and correctly, oral contraceptives are more than 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. Of course women don't always take the Pill correctly. Even then, in real life situations studies have shown that the rate of pregnancy varies from 2 to 8 percent a year.

These findings should reassure the estimated 12 million American women who are using oral contraceptives. However, if you are among this group, it is wise to avoid cigarette smoking and important to let your doctor know of any prior bouts of DVT before getting a prescription for the Pill. Some women inherit a genetic trait that increases the risk of DVT, and while this is not common, it is an important factor to consider when discussing contraceptive options with your doctor.