Friday, June 01, 2012
Saturday, September 04, 2010 Lessa asks

Q: Should I switch from Yaz if my family has a history of stroke?

I am interested in an expert opinion on Yaz. I have seen recent articles about how it may increase the likelihood of blood clots. I have been on this pill for several years wih no problems, when taken regularly. I am a healthy 25 year old, with the exception of starting to experience migraines over the past several months.  I recently learned that my grandmother had a stroke during her lifetime that left her paralyzed on her left side. Should I switch to another pill?If it is recommended that I switch, when is the appropriate time to do it? I ask because I once started my next pack of Yaz a couple weeks late, because there was a delay with prescription being transferred. The effects were horrible. I had my period for 3 weeks, months of terrible acne around my chin, and went through several months of depression. A doctor's advice would be much appreciated.

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Answers (1)
Merely Me, Health Guide
9/23/10 4:21pm

Hello

 

This is definitely a question you need to ask your doctor in order to assess your risks.

 

In the meantime here is the official Yaz website so you can read their information.

 

Here is the information about who should not take Yaz from their site:


Who Shouldn't Take Any Oral Contraceptives (OCs)? Some women should not use OCs, including women who have blood clots, certain cancers, a history of heart attack or stroke, as well as those who are or may be pregnant.


In Addition, Who Shouldn't Take YAZ? YAZ contains drospirenone, a different kind of hormone that for some may increase potassium too much. Therefore, you should not take YAZ if you have kidney, liver, or adrenal disease because this could cause serious heart and health problems. Tell your doctor if you are on daily long-term treatment for a chronic condition such as cardiovascular disease or chronic inflammatory disease. Women who take certain drugs (see below) should have their potassium level checked in the first month of taking YAZ.

 

It does not say anything about if your relatives suffered from a stroke.  You need to discuss your particular risk factors with your doctor.

 

Hope this helps.  Thank you for your question.

 

 

 

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By Lessa— Last Modified: 12/26/10, First Published: 09/04/10