Can I take pill long-term?

Sep 23 2007 DR GARETH SMITH

Q I AM 40 and I still take a birth control pill. I don't want children but I am worried about how safe it is to be on the pill for years at a time?

A SOME women do stay on oral contraception for many years up until the menopause but most family planning doctors would recommend a change of contraception to a lower dose, progesterone-only mini-pill.

Another option is a Minerva coil that releases a low dose of hormone into the uterus.

If you don't smoke and keep fit you should be fine to continue taking your pill but I'd advise exploring all your options at your local women's health clinic.