oral contraceptives and cardiovascular (CV) risk
Last edited 03/2020 and last reviewed 10/2021
Arterial thromboembolic disease
Current use of CHC (combined hormonal contraception) is associated with a very small increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and ischaemic stroke that appears to be greater with higher doses of
estrogen in COC.
Women should be informed that current use of CHC is associated with an increased risk of MI and ischaemic stroke but that that these events are still extremely uncommon in CHC users.
Use of CHC by women with significant additional risk factors for arterial disease should be strongly cautioned or avoided
Reference:
- FSRH (July 2019). Combined Hormonal Contraception
oral contraceptive pill (risk factors for arterial disease)
oral contraceptives and smoking
oral contraceptives and hypertension
oral contraceptives and stroke