User:Bluecrayon13/Combined hormonal contraception

Non-contraceptive uses
Combined oral contraceptives, or COCs, can be prescribed to treat an array of medical conditions through hormonal adjustments. COCs have been used cyclically to non-surgically decrease effects of menstrual disorders, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, through raising hemoglobin levels. COCs have also been prescribed to assist in pain management of pelvic pain disorders such as endometriosis and dysmenorrhea. The use of oral contraceptives have been linked to the reduction of nonspecific pelvic pain, as well as decreasing the chances of post-operation reoccurrence of both endometriosis and dysmenorrhea. CHCs are also a first line treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome. They are also prescribed for menstrual abnormalities, acne, and hirsutism.

Perimenopausal women on combined oral contraceptives have increased bone density, and COCs can be used to decrease hot flashes. Combined oral contraceptives have been shown to reduce risk of endometrial cancer, BRCA1 and BRCA2 ovarian cancer, and a modest reduction in colon cancer.

Contraindications
The estrogen in combined hormonal contraception can increase the risk of clotting in some women. In particular, this can manifest as a deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. However, the risk with low-dose combined hormonal contraceptives remain relatively low in most cases. Health providers may recommend against formulations with estrogen in women with certain risk factors including personal or family history of blood clots, pregnancy and the first 3 weeks postpartum, obesity, inactivity, and coagulation disorders. Additionally, combined hormonal contraceptives are sometimes not recommended in the first 4–6 weeks postpartum after delivery due to concerns of effect on breastfeeding performance.

Estrogens and progestins are metabolized in the liver, so there is a theoretical concern for use in women with liver disease. Long term use of CHCs by perimenopausal women at an increased risk of developing a glucose metabolic disorder, which may lead to diabetes.

Large studies have shown a slight increased incidence of breast cancer among hormonal contraceptive users compared to nonusers. However, the overall risk of breast cancer in users and nonusers remains low. Research has also shown a link between cervical cancer and long-term use of combined hormonal contraception, particularly in women with chronic HPV infection of the cervix. Combined hormonal contraceptives are also associated with a decreased risk of endometrial, ovarian, and colorectal cancers.