About 80-percent of women use some form of hormonal contraceptive -- such as birth control pills or the patch.

A new review suggests such contraceptives may increase the risk of stroke or heart problems among -some- women.

Researchers say the risks and benefits of hormonal contraception vary from woman to woman... So consultation with a doctor is key. But smoking, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure can alter the risk for heart problems when a woman is on birth control pills.

Early research on some of the newer hormone therapies is promising, as it appears to slightly lower blood pressure.