Birth Control Pills May Increase Risk of Lupus

Past studies have shown a link between oral contraceptives and lupus. According to new study results published in the April 2009 issue of Arthritis Care & Research -- women who take birth control pills may have an increased risk of developing lupus, especially just after "The Pill" is started.

After reviewing medical records of women in the U.K. General Practice Research Database, researchers found there was a 1.5-fold increased risk of developing lupus associated with oral contraceptives. The risk was even higher (2.5 times the risk) during the first 3 months after starting "The Pill".

Researchers believe the reason may be increased estrogen from oral contraceptives. Estrogen can affect the immune system and may enhance a woman's genetic predisposition for lupus. Researchers emphasized the risk was small and may only affect women who have a genetic predisposition for the disease. Since newer oral contraceptives contain lower doses of estrogen, the risk would be less than with older oral contraceptives used in the study.

Related Resources:

• Lupus Screening Quiz
• Fast Facts About Lupus
• 10 Things You Should Know About Lupus
• Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Lupus

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