Illustration of a woman reviewing medical data related to hormonal contraception and cancer risk, promoting informed decision-making in women's health.

Hormonal Contraception and Pancreatic Cancer: What Women Need to Know

Samir D’Costa in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 5 min read.

"New research sheds light on the potential link between hormonal birth control and the risk of pancreatic cancer, offering crucial insights for women's health."

For women, making informed decisions about their health is paramount, especially when it comes to contraception. The use of hormonal contraception has become increasingly prevalent, offering a convenient and effective method of birth control. However, with its widespread use, concerns about its potential long-term effects on women's health have also grown. One area of particular interest is the potential link between hormonal contraception and the risk of developing certain cancers, including pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer, while relatively rare, is a serious disease with a high mortality rate. Its impact on women's health underscores the importance of understanding all potential risk factors. While previous studies have offered some insights into this complex relationship, the findings have often been inconsistent. This is why new research that delves deeper into the connection between hormonal contraception and pancreatic cancer is so important. This research aims to provide clarity and actionable advice for women making contraceptive choices.

This article will explore the key findings of recent research that specifically focuses on the association between hormonal contraceptive use and the risk of pancreatic cancer in premenopausal women. We will examine the study's methodology, its conclusions, and the implications for women's health. This information will empower readers with the knowledge to make informed choices and discuss any concerns with their healthcare providers.

Unpacking the Research: Hormonal Contraception and Pancreatic Cancer

Illustration of a woman reviewing medical data related to hormonal contraception and cancer risk, promoting informed decision-making in women's health.

The study in question is a cohort study that examined the relationship between hormonal contraceptive use and pancreatic cancer risk among a large group of premenopausal women in Denmark. The researchers analyzed data from the Danish Cancer Registry, the National Patient Register, and the National Register of Medicinal Product Statistics. This provided a comprehensive dataset for assessing the impact of different types of hormonal contraception on pancreatic cancer risk. The primary goal was to determine whether the use of hormonal contraception increased the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer in this specific population.

The study's methodology involved tracking a large cohort of women aged 15-49 years from 1995 to 2014. Researchers gathered data on the participants' use of hormonal contraception, as well as any occurrences of pancreatic cancer. They used the Danish National Prescription Registry to track the specifics of contraceptive use, including the type, dose, and duration of use. The comprehensive data collection ensured a thorough analysis of the potential links between hormonal contraception and pancreatic cancer.

Comprehensive Data: The study leveraged extensive data from Danish national registries, ensuring a complete and accurate assessment of contraceptive use and cancer diagnoses.
Focus on Premenopausal Women: The study specifically targeted premenopausal women to eliminate the potential influence of hormonal changes associated with menopause.
Detailed Contraceptive Information: The researchers meticulously tracked different types and durations of hormonal contraception use.
Statistical Rigor: The study used advanced statistical methods to account for potential confounding factors, such as age, lifestyle, and other health conditions.

The key finding of the study indicates that, overall, there was no significant association between the use of hormonal contraception and the risk of pancreatic cancer in premenopausal women. The study did not find any substantial difference in risk between women who used hormonal contraception and those who did not. Furthermore, the research also examined whether the duration of contraceptive use or the type of contraception (combined or progestin-only) influenced the risk of pancreatic cancer. The findings did not reveal any significant differences or increased risk based on these factors, which should bring reassurance to women.

Empowering Women's Health Choices

The latest research offers clarity and reassurance regarding the use of hormonal contraception and pancreatic cancer risk. Women can use this information to make informed choices, and discuss their concerns with healthcare providers. This study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of women's health and the importance of continuous research in this area. With ongoing research, women can continue to make educated decisions about their reproductive health and overall well-being, leading to a healthier and more informed future.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206358, Alternate LINK

Title: Hormonal Contraceptive Use And Risk Of Pancreatic Cancer—A Cohort Study Among Premenopausal Women

Subject: Multidisciplinary

Journal: PLOS ONE

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Authors: Sedrah Arif Butt, Øjvind Lidegaardi, Charlotte Skovlund, Philip C. Hannaford, Lisa Iversen, Shona Fielding, Lina Steinrud Mørch

Published: 2018-10-30

Everything You Need To Know

Does hormonal birth control increase the risk of pancreatic cancer in women?

The latest research indicates that, overall, there is no significant association between the use of hormonal contraception and the risk of pancreatic cancer in premenopausal women. The research examined different types and durations of hormonal contraception use but did not reveal any significant differences or increased risk based on these factors. However, it's crucial to discuss individual risk factors and concerns with healthcare providers for personalized advice.

What specific types of hormonal contraception were studied in relation to pancreatic cancer risk?

The study analyzed different types of hormonal contraception, including both combined (estrogen and progestin) and progestin-only methods. Researchers used the Danish National Prescription Registry to track the specifics of contraceptive use, including the type, dose, and duration of use. The findings did not reveal any significant differences or increased risk based on the specific type of hormonal contraception used.

How was the research conducted to determine the link between hormonal contraception and pancreatic cancer?

The research was conducted as a cohort study, tracking a large group of premenopausal women in Denmark from 1995 to 2014. Researchers gathered data from the Danish Cancer Registry, the National Patient Register, and the National Register of Medicinal Product Statistics. This data was used to assess the impact of different types and durations of hormonal contraception on pancreatic cancer risk. Advanced statistical methods were employed to account for potential confounding factors.

What are the limitations of the study linking hormonal contraception and pancreatic cancer risk?

While the study leveraged comprehensive data from Danish national registries, it's important to consider potential limitations inherent in observational studies. The study focused specifically on premenopausal women in Denmark, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other populations or age groups. Additionally, while researchers accounted for potential confounding factors, residual confounding cannot be entirely ruled out. Future research could explore the potential impact of novel hormonal contraceptives or examine specific genetic predispositions that might influence the relationship between hormonal contraception and pancreatic cancer risk.

If hormonal contraception doesn't significantly increase pancreatic cancer risk, what other factors should premenopausal women consider when choosing birth control?

While this research suggests that hormonal contraception does not significantly increase the risk of pancreatic cancer in premenopausal women, women should consider various individual factors when choosing birth control. These factors may include the side effect profiles of different hormonal contraceptives, individual health history and risk factors for other conditions (such as cardiovascular disease or breast cancer), personal preferences, and effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to discuss individual needs and determine the most appropriate and safe contraceptive method. Future research may focus on the long-term effects of hormonal contraception on other health outcomes, offering a more comprehensive understanding of its overall impact on women's health.