Teenage girls on the Pill at risk of high blood pressure

Researchers from the University of Western Australia found that teenage girls who had been on the Pill for several months had high blood pressure readings than other girls, the Daily Mail reported.

The teenagers, upto 17 years of age were asked a range of questions about their weight, diet, alcohol and smoking habits. Girls were also asked if they were taking the Pill.

Normal blood pressure should be around 130/80 mm Hg, with anything over 140/90 mm Hg deemed high. For girls on the Pill, the first figure in this reading was already 3 mm Hg higher than others.

Dr Chi Le-Ha, whose study is published in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology, said "Teenage girls taking oral contraceptives should be advised about regular blood-pressure monitoring."

Although their blood pressure was still within the healthy range, Australian researchers are concerned that it may rise further when they get older, putting them at risk of heart attacks and strokes.

High blood pressure is known as the 'silent killer' within the National Health Services(NHS) as there are rarely any symptoms, but it gradually puts extra strain on the blood vessels and heart.

If left untreated, it can lead to heart attacks, strokes, fatal blood clots or kidney disease.