The main advantages of modern low-dose hormonal contraceptives include relative safety and high efficacy, which reduces the need for abortion or surgical sterilization. The objective was to analyze the identified and some of the potential risks of hormonal contraceptives, with particular emphasis on oral hormonal contraception. Although morbidity and mortality due to the use of hormonal contraceptives is very low, monitoring of their safety profile and measures to prevent noxious and unintended responses can still be improved, especially considering the large number of women taking these medicines. This thesis presents an overview of the data available in the scientific literature as well as an analysis of the assessments performed by various health authorities in order to determine the benefit-risk ratio of hormonal contraceptives. Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the safety profile of various forms of hormonal contraception, including studies that have been examining specific risks. Today, hormonal contraceptives side effects are usually mild and resolve with continuous use. The use of combined hormonal contraceptives can rarely lead to severe side effects, such as venous and arterial thromboembolism, especially in women with additional risk factors. Based on a number of epidemiological studies, health authorities have determined that the benefit of use of hormonal contraceptives is greater than the risk, with the correct administration and education of healthcare providers and patients. The safety profile is continuously monitored through routine and additional risk minimisation measures.