Does Taking Oral Contraceptives Conflict with General Anesthesia?

Is there any conflict between regularly taking oral contraceptives and general anesthesia?

Hello, Doctor: I have been regularly taking Yaz oral contraceptives, and I am considering undergoing surgery to correct a deviated septum.
However, I have not yet found a surgeon (there are various reasons for this; I initially planned to have the surgery at the end of May, but that is no longer possible).
I am very, very, very afraid of this minor surgery, so I plan to have general anesthesia (I do not want to be aware of the doctor working on my nose).
Currently, I am on the third white pill of my pack, and I am wondering if I should purchase another pack.
Is there any conflict between Yaz oral contraceptives and general anesthesia?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/24

Dr. Lin Xiuying reply Anesthesiology

Hello! Basically, if a patient is taking contraceptive pills and needs to undergo surgery, it is important to note that international literature suggests a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during prolonged immobility associated with surgery.
This is similar to the risk some travelers face when flying long distances without movement, which can lead to venous thromboembolism.
Therefore, some physicians may recommend that patients discontinue the medication for 4 weeks to avoid potential thrombotic complications.
Regarding general anesthesia, the progesterone found in contraceptive pills may actually reduce the requirement for anesthetics.
Thus, in your case, it is still advisable to consider undergoing the surgery 25 days later.
(The white pills are placebo and have no pharmacological effect, so you have already been off the medication for 3 days.) This is the response provided.
However, for the safety of the anesthesia procedure, it is still recommended to consult with an anesthesiologist prior to the surgery.
Wishing you a smooth procedure!

Reply Date: 2017/04/24

More Info

Taking oral contraceptives, such as the one you mentioned (Yasmin), generally does not conflict with general anesthesia. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind when planning for surgery, especially if you are using hormonal contraceptives.

Firstly, it is essential to inform your anesthesiologist and surgeon about all medications you are currently taking, including oral contraceptives. This information is crucial because certain medications can interact with anesthetic agents, potentially affecting how your body responds to anesthesia. However, most studies and clinical experiences suggest that oral contraceptives do not significantly alter the effects of general anesthesia.

One concern with taking oral contraceptives around the time of surgery is the increased risk of thromboembolic events, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). Hormonal contraceptives can elevate the risk of blood clots, particularly in patients who may be immobile for extended periods during and after surgery. To mitigate this risk, your healthcare team may recommend measures such as early mobilization, compression stockings, or even anticoagulant medications if you have other risk factors for clotting.

Additionally, the timing of your oral contraceptive cycle may be relevant. If you are currently on the third pill of your pack, it is advisable to continue taking your contraceptive as prescribed. Stopping or altering your regimen without medical advice could lead to unintended side effects, such as breakthrough bleeding or hormonal imbalances.

Regarding the anxiety you mentioned about undergoing surgery, it is entirely normal to feel apprehensive, especially about general anesthesia. Discussing your concerns with your surgeon and anesthesiologist can help alleviate some of your fears. They can explain the anesthesia process, what to expect during the surgery, and how they will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.

In summary, taking oral contraceptives like Yasmin does not inherently conflict with general anesthesia. However, it is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your medication use and any concerns you may have. They will work with you to create a safe and effective surgical plan that considers your overall health and any potential risks associated with your contraceptive use. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding medication management before and after surgery to ensure the best possible outcomes.

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