At Complete Healthcare for Women in Richland, WA, we often educate our patients about the lesser-known but powerful cancer-preventive benefits of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), particularly when it comes to ovarian and uterine (endometrial) cancers.
Let’s break down the science and the long-term health advantages of OCPs — especially for women who may be at higher risk due to family history or hormonal conditions.
OCPs contain synthetic forms of the hormones estrogen and progestin (or progestin alone in some cases) and are taken daily. Their primary role is to suppress ovulation and regulate the menstrual cycle. For decades, they've offered women reliable, convenient birth control. But studies now show their role in cancer prevention is just as important.
Ovarian cancer is often called the "silent killer" because symptoms are vague and often go unnoticed until the disease is advanced. That’s why prevention matters so much.
Using OCPs for five or more years has been shown to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by up to 50%, and even shorter use offers meaningful protection. Even more remarkable: this protective effect can last for 20 to 30 years after stopping the pill.
How does it work? Each time a woman ovulates, the surface of the ovary breaks to release an egg. Repeated monthly ovulation may contribute to the development of cancerous changes. By suppressing ovulation, OCPs give the ovaries a rest — decreasing the chances of abnormal cell changes that can lead to cancer.
Endometrial (or uterine) cancer is one of the most common gynecologic cancers in the U.S., especially among women over 50. OCPs have been shown to reduce the risk of this cancer by 20–30% with just one year of use, with further risk reduction with longer duration.
OCPs protect the uterine lining by balancing estrogen with progestin. Without this balance, the endometrium can thicken abnormally, potentially increasing cancer risk. The hormones in OCPs keep the endometrial lining stable and help prevent overgrowth.
Some women are concerned about the link between birth control pills and breast cancer. While some studies suggest a slight increase in breast cancer risk while taking OCPs, this risk disappears within 5–10 years of stopping them. For most women, the benefits — including cancer prevention, menstrual regulation, and improved skin — outweigh this short-term concern.
If you have a strong personal or family history of breast cancer or carry a BRCA gene mutation, talk to your provider at Complete Healthcare for Women. We'll help you assess your personal risk and explore the safest options for you.
In addition to cancer prevention, OCPs offer a variety of other health benefits, including:
More regular, lighter periods
Reduced menstrual cramps and PMS
Improved acne and hormone-related skin issues
Lower risk of ovarian cysts and benign breast disease
Management of endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
These additional benefits can significantly improve quality of life for many women.
OCPs are a good option for many women, especially those who:
Have a family history of ovarian or uterine cancer
Have irregular cycles, PCOS, or endometriosis
Want a reliable, reversible form of contraception
Are interested in long-term health benefits beyond birth control
At Complete Healthcare for Women, we work closely with each patient to tailor birth control and preventive care to their personal health goals and medical history.
Your reproductive health is more than just family planning. It's about understanding your risks, protecting your future, and making empowered choices. Whether you’re considering OCPs for contraception or curious about their cancer-preventive benefits, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
