Significant hearing impairment occurred in 2 female patients after a long-term application of oral contraceptives (OCs). In 2 of them, surgical intervention was necessary, and in 1 sample of operative material, otosclerosis was found. The possible occurrence of such disorders may be assumed in the course of OC ingestion when we consider a similar otosclerosis manifestation recorded in pregnant women. The data about the presence of these complications during OC use, and especially about the activity of other factors (such as familial involvement, occurrence in previous pregnancies, smoking, obesity) are not equivocal. However, attention should be paid whenever prescription of OCs is proposed and then hearing disorders of this type must be considered as contraindications. (author's)