Hormonal birth control is highly effective, but some people worry about the risk of blood clots. While birth control pills, patches, and rings can slightly increase the chance of blood clot formation, the overall risk remains low for most users. In this article, we’ll break down how birth control affects blood clot risk, common symptoms to watch for, and how to reduce your chances of developing a clot.

Does Birth Control Increase the Risk of Blood Clots?

Yes, some types of hormonal birth control can slightly increase the risk of blood clots, but the overall risk is still low for most people. The hormones in combination birth control methods (which contain estrogen and progestin) can affect blood circulation, making clot formation more likely in certain individuals.

How Common Are Blood Clots from Birth Control?

• People not on hormonal birth control: ~1-5 per 10,000 people per year develop a clot.
• People on combination birth control pills, patch, or ring: ~3-9 per 10,000 people per year.
• Pregnant individuals: ~5-20 per 10,000 pregnancies per year.

While birth control slightly increases clot risk, pregnancy actually carries a higher risk of blood clots than birth control use.

Which Types of Birth Control Have the Highest Risk?

Higher-Risk Methods (Contain Estrogen & Progestin):

• Combination Birth Control Pills (e.g., Yaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Lo Loestrin Fe)
• Birth Control Patch (Xulane, Twirla)
• Birth Control Ring (NuvaRing, Annovera)

Lower-Risk Methods (No Estrogen):

• Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills)
• Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Skyla)
• Birth Control Implant (Nexplano
• Birth Control Shot (Depo-Provera)
• Non-Hormonal IUD (ParaGard)
• Barrier Methods (Condoms, Diaphragm, Cervical Cap)

If you’re concerned about clotting risk, progestin-only or non-hormonal options may be a safer choice.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Blood Clots on Birth Control?

You may have an increased risk of blood clots if you: ✔️ Are over 35 years old and smoke. ✔️ Have a family history of blood clots or genetic clotting disorders. ✔️ Have high blood pressure or heart disease. ✔️ Have obesity (BMI over 30). ✔️ Are pregnant or in the postpartum period. ✔️ Have a sedentary lifestyle or prolonged immobility (e.g., long flights, bed rest). ✔️ Recently had surgery or an injury that affects mobility.

Signs and Symptoms of a Blood Clot

Blood clots are serious and require immediate medical attention. Watch for these warning signs:

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Clot in the Leg

⚠️ Symptoms:

• Swelling in one leg (not both)
• Pain or tenderness in the calf or thigh
• Warm, reddish skin over the affected area

Pulmonary Embolism (PE) – Clot in the Lung

⚠️ Symptoms:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Sharp chest pain (especially when breathing deeply)
• Rapid heart rate
• Coughing up blood

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.

How to Lower Your Risk of Blood Clots While on Birth Control

If you’re using birth control and worried about blood clot risks, here’s how to protect yourself:

1. Choose a Lower-Risk Birth Control Method

• If you have risk factors, consider progestin-only or non-hormonal options.
• Talk to your doctor about safe alternatives based on your health history.

2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

• Stay active: Avoid sitting for long periods—take breaks to move around.
• Eat a balanced diet: Limit processed foods and increase anti-inflammatory foods.
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration helps keep blood circulation healthy.

3. Avoid Smoking

• Smoking significantly increases the risk of blood clots when combined with estrogen-containing birth control.
• If you smoke, consider quitting before starting combination birth control.

4. Watch for Warning Signs

• Pay attention to symptoms like unexplained leg swelling, pain, or shortness of breath.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any signs of a clot.

5. Move Around on Long Trips

• If traveling for 4+ hours, take breaks to stand up and walk around.
• Flex your feet and stretch your legs to keep circulation flowing.

6. Get Regular Health Checkups

• Have your blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked.
• Let your doctor know if you have a family history of blood clots.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

Consult your healthcare provider if:

• You have risk factors and want to explore safer birth control options.
• You’ve experienced blood clots in the past.
• You develop leg pain, swelling, or breathing difficulties while on birth control.

Your doctor may recommend switching to a progestin-only or non-hormonal contraceptive to lower your risk.

Final Thoughts

While birth control slightly increases the risk of blood clots, the risk is still low for most users. If you have risk factors like smoking, obesity, or a family history of clots, talk to your doctor about safer birth control options.

Understanding the risks, knowing the warning signs, and making lifestyle changes can help you stay protected while using birth control.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Birth Control and Blood Clot Risks.” www.cdc.gov
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). “Understanding Blood Clots and Birth Control.” www.acog.org
• Mayo Clinic. “Contraceptive Risks and Benefits.” www.mayoclinic.org