Amara and Megan
Megan von Hopffgarten shares insights about the hidden risks of birth control, as a mother who lost a child to a blood clot.
I’m the mother of an incredibly vibrant, artistic and beautiful soul named Amara. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of existence and the profound responsibility that we hold as parents. I hope that by sharing my story through a personal lens, it will resonate with other parents and highlight the realities we face.
Amara’s Story
Amara, like many adolescents, struggled with acne. I took her to the pediatrician, looking for a solution. For about a year, her doctor explored various options – yet nothing seemed to help. When birth control was prescribed to manage her acne, I trusted the decision, believing it to be a common and harmless choice. I had no idea that this very medication would play a role in Amara’s untimely death.
When Amara passed away, I was engulfed with devastation, utterly lost and confused. How could this even happen? I had so many questions. After months of waiting, we received Amara’s autopsy report that revealed she died from a pulmonary embolism, or blood clot in her lung. I just couldn’t fathom how my healthy 14-year-old daughter suddenly died from a massive blood clot.
Amara
The report further explained that Amara had an underlying blood clotting disorder called heterozygous factor V Leiden, a genetic mutation that disrupts the regulation of blood clotting. Estrogen can significantly increase clotting risks in individuals with this disorder. This dangerous combination can lead to severe complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT or a blood clot in a person’s leg or arm) or pulmonary embolism (PE or a blood clot in a person’s lung). It was the unfortunate mix of factor V Leiden and the increased estrogen from the birth control pill that shaped my Amara’s fate.
Understand the Implications of Genetic Clotting Disorders
Needless to say, I did a lot of research, I learned a lot and I still have a lot of questions. As a mother, I often find myself reflecting on the alarming trend of prescribing birth control to children. I urge medical professionals to consider the potential risks of such prescriptions, especially when it comes to hidden genetic conditions like blood clotting disorders.
I’m aware that doctors don’t always have knowledge or expertise regarding every single condition. That’s why I say it’s up to us to stay informed! It’s crucial to have thorough evaluations with your medical providers. Have open, honest conversations about what these medications truly mean for our kids. As parents, we can be vigilant advocates, educating ourselves about their health and the medications they’re prescribed. We can ask questions, seek second opinions and make sure these kids get the safest, most suitable care.
However, as our teens transition to adulthood, a new set of challenges emerges. At just 18 years old, the ultimate responsibility for their health rests in their own hands. It then becomes their job to navigate the healthcare world independently. As parents, we can’t advocate for them in the same way we once did.
Amara
Transition from Adolescents to Young Adults
With that said, it’s crucial for young adults to have knowledge and self-advocacy skills. So, what can we do as parents? We can encourage our children to ask questions, understand their health conditions and engage in their medical care. Show them how to make informed decisions as they step into adulthood. We can also honor the memory of those we have lost by raising awareness, education, and advocacy in healthcare, particularly during Blood Clot Awareness Month.
