Question:
Do I stop taking birth control pills, due to risk of blood clots?

Due to the possible side effect of blood clots with the use of birth control pills and the risk of blood clots after surgery, should I stop taking my pills in order to lower my chances of developing a blood clot? If yes, how soon before surgery?    — jrcgm33 (posted on March 26, 2002)


March 26, 2002
I stopped taking my Trilevlen 1 month prior to surgery and I didn't start until 1 month after. In those two months, I had the worst periods. They were heavy and very uncomfortable. Once I got back on, all was fine. Good luck!
   — tmrivas

March 26, 2002
Hi...I know that my doctor mentioned to stop taking any type of birth control prior to surgery. I am on the depo provera shot (a shot every 3 months) and was told to discontinue it until after the surgery. Hope this helps.
   — Giovanna G.

March 26, 2002
My surgeon never told me to stop taking it.. I have PCOS and going off the pill is not an option for me as well as the sudden drop in weight can make us more fertile..which we don't need right now :-) Talk to your dr. about their preferences!!!
   — Allie A.

March 26, 2002
My doctor told me to stop taking my Birth control pills 3-4 weeks before surgery. The reason was because the birthcontrol and blood thinner together can cause problems. Take care.
   — [Deactivated Member]

March 26, 2002
My ob suggested I stop atleast a month before surgery due to increased risk of blood clots.
   — missesrita

March 26, 2002
I specifically asked my surgeon if I should stop taking my birth control before the surgery and he said no. I think it all depends on the surgeon. It would probably be best to ask yours personally.
   — Kelly M.

May 27, 2002
Actually my ob told me not to stop taking the pills, and my sugeon told me to make sure I brought them to the hospital so that I would be sure of getting them when I was supposed to. Hope that helps.
   — Lori Q.

October 21, 2002
My Dr. told me to keep taking the birth controll pills, and they would be aggressive with clots....they said they would rather I not get pregnant and not be able to have the surg. Depends on the Dr. I guess...
   — jennykern

November 25, 2002
I take the depo-provera injection, and was told by my surgeon to not take the last shot that was due me on 10/29. I am having my surgery 12/2. He also again warned me about getting pregnant, and that I still have to use protection. But, hey, I'll do what I have to, I want this experience to be a success!!
   — AMY J.

December 14, 2002
I wasn't on BC pills, but I had been taking the Depo-Provera shot for four years prior, and I was told not to get my last shot, in order to be free of those hormones for at least one month before my surgery. NO big deal for me, but be sure to ask your surgeon!!
   — Sarah F.

September 25, 2003
YES! My surgeon told me TODAY that one whole month BEFORE surgery all Birth Control Pills (I'm sure other hormones too) need to be stopped for the reason of blood clots during or after surgery. Plus, think about it this way, I'm sure you won't be feeling too much like having sex afterwards anyway. HA! Now 6 months down the road when that weights coming off, somebody is gonna have to hose me down!
   — Lisa E.




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