Saturday, May 28, 2016
Birth Control Pill & Pineal Gland Cyst
Should a 45 yo female with a Pineal Gland Cyst take Birth Control Pills?
Oral contraceptives ("the Pill") are a very effective means of preventing pregnancy. It is especially important for women in their 40's to continue to use some form of contraception if they do not want to get pregnant, since conception can occur right up until menopause. However, these medications can be dangerous if a woman has other medical problems such as hypertension, diabetes, or vascular changes that put her at risk for heart disease or stroke.
A pineal gland cyst refers to a cyst or collection of fluid in a small gland within the brain. Most of these cysts are small and of no clinical significance, but you should consult your doctor about what the risks are, especially if the cyst is large or if you experience symptoms like headaches or changes in vision.
Jonathan A Schaffir, MD
Clnical Associate Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University