Khaberni -Khaberni - A recent study has revealed that the use of combined oral contraceptives may increase the risk of ischemic stroke in young women.
The researchers pointed out that ischemic stroke, which often occurs without a clear cause, is one of the most common types of strokes among young adults, accounting for about 40% of cases. The study aimed to explore the relationship between this condition, patient gender, and medications used, such as combined oral contraceptives.
The study, presented at the European Stroke Organisation Conference (ESOC), included 268 women aged between 18 and 49 years who had suffered from a stroke, compared to 268 healthy women. Among the groups, it was found that 66 of the women who suffered from the stroke and 38 of the healthy women were using oral contraceptives.
After considering other factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, migraine, and obesity, the researchers found that women who took combined contraceptives were three times more likely to suffer a stroke compared to women who did not use them. The results suggest that this relationship remains regardless of other factors, hinting at the possibility of additional reasons, such as genetic factors, contributing to the increased risk.
Most of the women participating in the study were taking medications containing ethinyl estradiol at a dose of about 20 micrograms, in addition to other types based on estrogen.
Despite the importance of these findings, the researchers emphasize that the study is not intended to cause panic but to raise awareness among both doctors and women alike. They urge caution when prescribing combined contraceptives, especially for women who have a medical history related to vascular diseases or stroke.
