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How risky is the contraceptive pill?

We look at the numbers behind the scary headlines about birth control.

Many of the potential side effects of the pill, such as blood clots, have been well documented since its release in the 1960s. And now, a study has claimed to have established a link between depression and the pill. But perhaps the main risk women face is poorly interpreted statistics.

Presenter: Tim Harford and Elizabeth Cassin
Producer: Charlotte McDonald and Elizabeth Cassin

Image: Contraceptive Pills. Copyright: Philippe Huguen/AFP/Getty

Available now

9 minutes

Last on

Mon 12 Dec 201607:50GMT

Broadcasts

  • Fri 9 Dec 201619:50GMT
  • Fri 9 Dec 201620:50GMT
  • Fri 9 Dec 201621:50GMT
  • Mon 12 Dec 201602:50GMT
  • Mon 12 Dec 201603:50GMT
  • Mon 12 Dec 201604:50GMT
  • Mon 12 Dec 201605:50GMT
  • Mon 12 Dec 201607:50GMT

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