On the Pill? Teenage Girls are at Risk of Developing High Blood Pressure

New research has found that teenage girls who are on the pill are at risk of developing high blood pressure when they grow up.

The Irish Daily Mail reports that scientists have found that even teenage girls who have only been taking the oral contraceptive for a few months, have readings which are significantly higher than those of other girls their age who are not on the pill.

High blood pressure is one of the main side-effects from taking the pill, however, this is one of the first studies to show the effect that the contraceptive can have on teenage girls over a worryingly short period of time.

And while the girls’ blood pressure was still within the healthy range, researchers are highly concerned that it could rise further as they get older, which would put them at risk of heart attacks and, in some cases, even strokes.

For years, high pressure is known as the ‘silent killer’ and if left untreated, it can cause various health problems.

“Teenage girls taking oral contraceptives should be advised about regular blood-pressure monitoring,” said Dr Chi Le-Ha, the author of the study.

“The effects are additive and already associated with hypertension. Moreover, teenage girls taking oral contraceptives should be advised about regular blood pressure monitoring,” Dr Le-Ha added.

The good news is that blood pressure can be lowered, therefore it is recommended that teenage girls who are currently on the pill make sure they look after themselves, eat well and exercise more.