A new European study has revealed that young women who use combined oral contraceptives (OCs) are three times more likely to suffer from a cryptogenic ischemic stroke (CIS) compared to those who don’t. This groundbreaking research was presented at the European Stroke Organization Conference (ESOC 2025), held in Helsinki from May 21–23.
CIS refers to a type of stroke with no known cause, and it accounts for up to 40% of ischemic strokes in young adults. While past studies have shown a link between oral contraceptives and stroke risk, this study is one of the first to focus specifically on CIS in young women.
The “SECRETO” study analyzed 268 women aged 18–49 who had experienced a CIS and compared them to 268 age-matched women without stroke history. Among these, 66 stroke patients and 38 controls were using combined OCs. After adjusting for other stroke risk factors like smoking, hypertension, and migraines with aura, the researchers found that OC users had three times the risk of developing CIS.
Most of the OCs used in the study were ethinylestradiol-based, with a median estrogen dose of 20 micrograms. The researchers also took note of different formulations, like estradiol hemihydrate and estradiol valerate, to provide accurate comparisons.
Dr. Mine Sezgin from Istanbul University, the study’s lead author, said, “Our findings highlight the need for careful screening and personalized contraceptive choices, especially for women with additional risk factors.”
This study emphasizes the importance of considering individual health conditions before prescribing hormonal contraceptives. As part of a growing global healthcare conversation, this data encourages doctors and patients to make more informed decisions.
At The Doctorpreneur Academy, we believe in staying updated with the latest medical research to empower doctors and healthcare professionals. Whether you’re a practicing clinician or a student, understanding new risk factors like these helps enhance patient care and safety.
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