When a woman reaches thirty-five, her chances of becoming pregnant are not as likely as before. Many mistakenly think they no longer need to use birth control. However, unless they wish to become pregnant, some form of birth control is necessary until after menstruation ceases.

Birth control takes on a new challenge for these so-called "mature" women. In addition to preventing pregnancy, the chosen contraceptive should be one that is not likely to cause any harmful side effects. While most women over 35 can still use birth control pills safely, there are a few risk factors that must be considered.

Oral Contraceptive Risk Factors For Women Over 35

Birth control pills are a simple, safe, and effective way to prevent pregnancy. When taken as directed, most oral contraceptives have a 99% or higher success rate. In general, women 35 and older who have previously taken oral contraceptives should be able to continue using their same brand of birth control pill.

However, if a woman of that age smokes, birth control pills are not recommended. The longer the patient has smoked, the more risk is involved in taking oral contraceptives. The chance of heart problems greatly increases if a patient smokes while taking birth control pills. For this reason, women in this age group are advised to quit smoking or use another method of birth control.

Patients who have had heart problems or suffer from diabetes should also refrain from using oral contraceptives. Diabetic women especially have a much higher risk of developing atherosclerosis and other heart related conditions.

Women in their thirties and forties who have never used birth control pills in the past should be able to safely start taking oral contraceptives if desired. As with younger females, your physician can decide which brand of birth control pills will work best for you.

Benefits of Birth Control for Women 35 and Older

Besides preventing pregnancy, birth control pills can lessen a woman's chances of developing serious illnesses including several types of cancers. Combination birth control pills which contain both estrogen and progestin help to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Even when a woman reaches the age where birth control is no longer necessary, the added protection from ovarian cancer may continue for several years after she stops taking the birth control pill.

Women who suffer from other menstrual related problems such as ovarian cysts can benefit from the use of birth control pills. Excess bleeding and pelvic pain can both be controlled through the use of oral contraceptives.

Uterine fibroids are another common problem for women in their thirties and forties. These fibroids or tumors can form either inside or outside the uterus area. Although they are non-cancerous, uterine fibroids can cause extreme pain and discomfort in women. While birth control pills cannot reduce the size of uterine fibroids, they are very effective in regulating heavy bleeding and reducing pain.

The Ortho Evra Skin Patch

Another birth control method that is gaining popularity is known as "the patch". Even more convenient than birth control pills, the Ortho Evra patch only has to be applied once a week. This unique form of birth control delivers an abundant supply of estrogen and progestin to the body through skin absorption. Patients can safely wear the patch while swimming, exercising, or showering.

It is important to note that the Ortho Evra skin patch contains a higher concentration of estrogen than traditional oral contraceptives. As with other types of birth control, smoking is strongly discouraged. Women who smoke while using the Ortho Evra patch can experience serious complications, including blood clots and stroke.

Although the Ortho Evra skin patch is generally safe for most patients to use, it is best to discuss with your family doctor or gynecologist what side effects may result. The most common complaint from patients using Ortho Evra is a slight skin irritation to the area where the patch is applied.

Plan B - Emergency Birth Control

Although not intended to serve as a regular oral contraceptive, Plan B birth control pills are another option for women 35 and older. Many women will stop using their regular method of birth control once they reach a certain age. While they may not have stopped menstruating altogether, their periods can be irregular and sporadic, leading them to believe pregnancy is no longer possible. To their dismay, a percentage of these women will become pregnant unexpectedly.

In order to prevent unplanned pregnancies, Plan B is available for emergency situations involving unprotected intercourse. The main disadvantage is that the pills must be taken a short time after sexual contact occurs. Most physicians recommend taking the first pill within three days after unprotected sex and the second dose twelve hours later.

Choosing the Best Birth Control Method for You

Before deciding which form of birth control to use, you'll want to first schedule a consultation with your physician. Even if you've been taking birth control for years, it's best to reevaluate your decision once you reach a certain age. Depending on your overall health, your doctor may recommend another birth control method or suggest an oral contraceptive that contains a lower dosage of hormones.