Q: I am a 34-year-old female. I do not smoke. I have been on oral
contraceptives since the birth of my last child six years ago, but I am
concerned that I may be increasing my risk of getting late-onset
diabetes. This runs in my family, and my own blood sugars were slightly
raised during my last pregnancy. Should I stop taking the pill?
A: Doctors now think it is fine to keep taking oral contraceptives
right up to menopause, if you wish, as long as you do not smoke.
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Smoking and taking the pill over the age of 35 is not recommended.
There is some debate as to whether oral contraceptives increase blood
sugars. Blood insulin levels do tend to be higher in women on the pill,
but taking it does not necessarily lead to weight gain.
Researchers at the University of Washington recently completed a
10-year study comparing pill users with non-users to see whether there
was any increase in glucose, insulin levels or diabetes. Contrary to
previous studies, their results showed the oral contraceptive users had
a significantly lower incidence of diabetes. Of course, this research
needs to be validated with further studies before we can be sure of the
results.
In your case, I suggest that you keep taking the pill, but to be on the
safe side, get annual checks of your fasting blood glucose levels. Two
elevated blood sugar tests in a row are suggestive of diabetes.
Actually, you are probably at less risk of developing diabetes from the
oral contraceptives than you would be if you had another pregnancy,
given that you had a raised blood sugar level when you were expecting
your last child.
Clare Rowson is a medical doctor with a practice near Belleville, Ont.
Her columns are intended for general information only. Individuals are
encouraged to also seek the advice of their own doctor regarding
medical questions and treatments.
