Aynslee shares her personal story of experiencing blood clots linked to birth control.
In 2023, I was rushed to the emergency room with severe abdominal pain and was diagnosed with a perforated stomach ulcer. During this visit, doctors discovered multiple pulmonary embolisms or blood clots in my lungs, which were caused by hormonal birth control. This finding turned my world upside down.
After being hospitalized for more than a week due to these pulmonary embolisms, I spent three months on blood thinners and went through the physical and mental challenges of recovery. This experience forced me to confront both the immediate physical impacts and the long-term implications of living with clotting issues. These are issues that I still face today.
The journey has been a powerful reminder of the seriousness and complexity of these conditions. Today, I am committed to raising awareness and supporting others who are affected by blood clots.
This experience has also driven me to raise awareness among young women about the potential risks of hormonal birth control pills. Blood clots are a serious but often overlooked side effect. I believe it’s important for others to understand this risk and know how to advocate for their health.
I hope to encourage women to ask questions, explore their options, and become informed about the impact of these medications on their bodies. By sharing my story, particularly during Blood Clot Awareness Month, I want to empower others to make well-informed choices about their health and well-being.
Learn more about contraception decision making in this short video.
Learn more about hormonal versus nonhormonal contraception here.
