will norethindrone increase my chances of a blood clots if I have a stent?

Question

I have been perscribed norethindrone for severe menstal bleeding and pain. However,I am also taking plavix and aspirin because I have a medicated stent.

Answer 1

Connie - You ask a great question. As you know, the results of the Women's Health Initiative in 2003 suggested that there could be an increase in heart attacks in women using combination estrogen-progestin pills. More striking, however, was the finding that women taking estrogen-progestin had a significantly higher risk of developing blood clots in the legs that could come loose and lodge in the lungs. It was based on these findings that doctors stopped recommending hormone replacement for post-menopausal women (which many had thought could protect AGAINST heart attacks).

Norethindrone is a progestogen that is used in progestin-only pills (pills without estrogen). At this time, the best studies we have show that progestin-only pills DO NOT increase a woman's risk for heart attack, stroke or blood clots. Therefore, based on this, it is reasonable to take norethindrone even with your medicated stent. It is important to keep taking the Plavix and aspirin, however, until your cardiologist tells you to stop! It is also important to avoid smoking, if you do so, since this will increase your risk of blood clots as well!

If you are still worried about the risks of blood clots, you may want to ask your gynecologist about Mirena, a medicated IUD containing progestin. This can control severe menstrual bleeding and cramping with fewer side effects because less of the progestin enters your bloodstream. It is not associated with increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (pelvic infections) and is an effective contraceptive.

I hope that helps! Good luck to you!

Answer 2

You should know better than to ask this type of question on the computer. you may get some good answers, but you should be asking your cardiologist these kind of questions.