[Side effects of hormonal contraceptives from an internal medicine viewpoint]

Only little, partly reliable data are present concerning the frequency of impairing side-effects of hormonal contraceptives. These data are burdened with subjective opinions, do often not take into consideration the compound of the preparations, neglect prerequisites for epidemiological recognitions, overestimate individual descriptions and do not take into consideration the comparison with the moments of danger in the interruption of undesired pregnancies. Under this aspect the value of disturbing effects and contraindications are demonstrated from the point of view of the internist. At present there is no secure clue to genetic and endocrine long-term effects, also not for short-term lesions. Taking into considerations subjective complaints, the frequency of disturbing effects is relatively high. Cardio- and cerebrovascular complications must be seen in connection with associated risk factors. Women of the 35th to 45th year should take hormonal contraceptives only when they finish smoking and under careful control.