Contraceptive pill linked with reduced risk of ovarian cancer

Researchers not sure apparent protective effect extends to progestin only products such as mini pill and implants

Women who use modern forms of the combined pill are at a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer than women who don't take hormonal contraception, research suggests.

The study backs up previous findings for older forms of the combined pill - an oral contraceptive that contains artificial versions of both oestrogen and progesterone. Modern forms of the pill contain different doses of synthetic oestrogen and different types of progestins, and are sometimes taken continuously.