 migraines, PCOS, BCPs and stroke risk
In the last year, there has been a fair bit if news coverage about the dangers of taking BCPs if you suffer from migraines. This can cause a stroke, even if you are young and otherwise healthy. Many dr's treating PCOS'rs are downplaying this risk. As my family physician put it, "ask your gyn and she'll say it's perfectly safe to take BCPs, ask your neurologist and she'll say you're crazy if you take them".
For PCOS'rs who have limited treatment options, be very VERY cautious about taking BCPs if you also suffer from migraines, even if you only have one or two migraines per year. For me, BCPs worked very well initially (lost 12 pounds in two months, restored ovulation, etc.) BUT halfway through my third month i suffered a TIA, also called a mini-stoke. This was caused by the BCPs. Before that, I never had high blood pressure, and other than being overweight, I was healthy.
So, bottom line, be careful if you're considering this option. |