I took the Combined Pill (Cilest) for about 9 months, before I went back to the doctor. It wasn't emphasised to me how important it was to have a blood pressure check. When it was checked then, it was really high (I think it was about 173/110), and my doctor told me to come off the pill immediately. I kept going for BP checks, and he put me on medication. After I'd been on medication for about 6 weeks, my BP was down to normal and I thought I could come off it. However, he said I'd have to take it for the rest of my life.

I really don't understand why I have to take medication for the rest of my life, when I've stopped taking the pill (as that was what made my BP go up). Can anyone explain this to me? Has this happened to anyone else?

I've found this really hard to come to terms with, as I'm only 23, and I really don't want to have to take medication forever. I thought I was helping myself by going on the pill, but I seem to have damaged my health permanently. And I'm worried about it being dangerous when I do want to get pregnant.

Hmmmm well I'm not sure, but I'd get a second opinion??

That is the reason that I got off of my BCPs too. I am currently on the Patch but I do take my BP pills. I do not think that you have to take them for life, you just need to get your blood pressure down with out being on BP pills. Things that help are the usual weight loss and lots of excercise. Once you have a normal blood pressure regularly then you should not be taking the pills. I would talk to your OB about it. Maybe he thinks that your BP is due to the pills and as long as you take the pills then you need to take BP pills. I doubt that you have damaged your health... As for getting pregnant in the future, it is a lot easier when your BP is down naturally. Not for GETTING pregnant, but for having a healthy pregnancy. I hope this helps you.