The Dangers of Yaz Birth Control

In 2006, Yaz birth control was released.  It is prescribed to be taken orally and daily.  It differs from other birth control pills as it contains drospirenone, a progestin hormone.  Drospirenone increases levels of potassium in the taker's bloodstream.

However, Yaz is linked to many serious side effects including gall bladder disease, stroke, blood clots and heart attack.  The FDA explains, "Yaz has additional risks because it contains the progestin, drospirenone [that] can lead to hyperkalemia in high risk patients, which may result in potentially serious heart and health problems."  The FDA warns women to be aware of not only the risks of this particular birth control but oral contraceptives in general.

Studies have found a link between Yaz and hyperkalemia, a condition where the person has abnormal levels of potassium in the bloodstream.  Such a condition can lead to fatal arrhythmias. 

All oral contraceptives increase a person's risk of heart attack, especially for smokers.  Researchers have also found a link to blood clots and strokes.