Does taking birth control pills lower the risk of getting Ovarian Cancer?
Research shows that oral contraceptives (birth control pills) can reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer. A large meta-analysis of 11 cohort studies found that women who used oral contraceptives had a 20% lower risk of ovarian cancer compared to those who never used them 3. The protective effect appears stronger with longer use, and the benefit may last for years after stopping the pills.
What the research says
A 2025 meta-analysis of 11 cohort studies, following PRISMA guidelines, found that oral contraceptive users had a significantly lower incidence of ovarian cancer (HR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.71–0.89) 3. This means users had about a 20% reduction in risk. However, the benefit was not seen in women who used oral contraceptives for less than 5 years; the reduced risk was only observed with longer duration of use 3.
Earlier research from the late 1980s also noted that oral contraceptives protect against ovarian cancer 9. These findings are consistent with the more recent meta-analysis, reinforcing the protective effect.
It is important to note that oral contraceptives do not appear to increase the risk of breast cancer overall. A separate meta-analysis of 16 prospective cohort studies involving over 6 million women found no significant association between oral contraceptive use and breast cancer risk (HR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.99–1.07) 7. This helps address concerns about potential cancer risks from birth control pills.
What to ask your doctor
- How does my personal risk of ovarian cancer affect whether birth control pills might be right for me?
- Are there any other factors, like my age or smoking history, that could change the benefits or risks of taking oral contraceptives?
- How long would I need to take birth control pills to get the protective effect against ovarian cancer?
- What are the other potential risks and benefits of oral contraceptives for my specific health situation?
- If I have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, does that change the recommendation?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about OB/GYN & Women's Health and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.