Birth control pill shrinks bones

Using the birth control pill may reduce a woman’s bone density, according to US university researchers.

Women using a pill with a 30- to 35-microgram estrogen dose experience about one per cent less bone density than those who do not use hormonal contraceptives.

Women can offset this effect on their bone density by eating foods high in calcium and vitamin D, exercising, not smoking, and limiting alcohol intake, researchers say.