Mum Urges Doctors To Warn Women Of Risks Associated With The Pill After Suffering Stroke

A mother is appealing for doctors to make women more aware of the potential risks associated with taking the contraceptive pill. According to ITV News, Louise Palfreyman (32) from Cheshire had to undergo brain surgery last year after a blood clot caused her to have a stroke. Doctors reportedly told the mum-of-one, who suffered migraines whilst taking the medication, that the likely cause was her smoking and being on the contraceptive pill. Louise was left partially paralysed following the stroke. She also lost the vision in her left eye and continues to have spasms in her arm. She told ITV News: “It could have been prevented quite easily… Our lives got torn apart last year.” It was also reported today that a 17-year-old ballet dancer from Manchester died from a blood clot that may have been caused by her taking the contraceptive pill. According to The Express, Maria Santa suffered from headaches and went to the doctor on a number of occasions but was turned away. She was rushed to hospital after her boyfriend found her unconscious at their apartment in the city but sadly passed away two days later. Last year, Medical Daily quoted a study (published in MedLink Neurology) which found that there’s a "small but significant increased risk of stroke" among women who take the pill. However, this risk was found to be dependent on a number of other factors including lifestyle choices and medical history, meaning that cases such as the above are considered rare. Doctors are supposed to outline the potential risks to patients who are taking the contraceptive pill. There is also information regarding said risks in the information leaflets within packs. If you have any queries or questions, please consult your doctor.