Cardiovascular Conditions and Birth Control Risks

Q: Cardiovascular Conditions and Birth Control Risks

Hello： Cardiovascular diseases refer to diseases related to blood vessels and can be categorized into three main types： myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. <br>These conditions are associated with a higher risk of complications and mortality. <br>Your

Cardiovascular diseases and side effects of contraceptive pills?

Hello, doctor.
I have paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), mitral valve prolapse, and mild mitral regurgitation.
Aside from that, my routine health check-up results are generally normal.
These conditions seem to be quite common and are not considered major issues.
However, I have a question regarding the definition of cardiovascular disease.
When filling out a medical questionnaire, should I classify myself as having cardiovascular disease or heart disease? Do my conditions fall under the general definition of cardiovascular disease or heart disease? Should I specifically mention these conditions when completing a medical questionnaire? Sometimes, when I refer to health information, terms like "cardiovascular disease" or "heart disease" come up, and I'm unsure whether I should consider myself a normal person who doesn't need to worry too much or if I should pay attention to this information.
Additionally, I am considering taking oral contraceptives, which may have a risk of thrombosis as a side effect.
I previously asked my gynecologist about this, but the doctor did not inquire further about my medical history, and I forgot to bring up these concerns.
Given my situation, am I at an increased risk of developing thrombosis? Is it safe for me to take these contraceptives, or would you advise against it? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

C, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/23

Dr. Huang Yinghe reply Cardiology

Hello: Cardiovascular diseases refer to diseases related to blood vessels and can be categorized into three main types: myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.
These conditions are associated with a higher risk of complications and mortality.
Your arrhythmia and mitral valve issues are not classified as cardiovascular diseases and are unlikely to lead to severe complications or sequelae.
While it is acceptable to generally refer to them as heart conditions, they are not serious problems.
Oral contraceptives are hormonal preparations that can indeed increase the risk of thrombosis.
It is not recommended for individuals with a history of thrombotic disorders, coagulation abnormalities, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, or excessive obesity, as these factors elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Your situation does not seem to present any specific contraindications, but it is still advisable to consult with a gynecologist.

Reply Date: 2021/08/23

More Info

When it comes to understanding cardiovascular conditions and their implications for birth control, it’s essential to clarify a few key points regarding your health status and the potential risks associated with hormonal contraceptives.

Firstly, cardiovascular disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders, heart valve issues, and more. Your conditions—specifically, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) and mild mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation—are generally considered less severe compared to more critical cardiovascular diseases like heart failure or significant coronary artery disease. However, they still warrant attention, especially when considering hormonal contraceptives.

In terms of categorizing your health status on medical forms, it is advisable to be transparent about your heart conditions. While PSVT and mild mitral valve issues may not classify you as having a severe cardiovascular disease, they are still relevant to your overall health profile. When filling out a medical questionnaire, it is prudent to disclose these conditions. This information can help healthcare providers assess your risk factors more accurately and tailor their recommendations accordingly.

Regarding the use of hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, there are important considerations. Hormonal contraceptives can increase the risk of thromboembolic events (blood clots), particularly in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Factors that elevate this risk include a history of blood clots, smoking, obesity, and certain genetic predispositions. Although your conditions are not classified as severe cardiovascular disease, they still require careful evaluation.

Given your history of PSVT and mitral valve prolapse, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any hormonal contraceptive. They may recommend alternative forms of contraception that do not carry the same risk of blood clots, such as non-hormonal methods (e.g., copper IUDs) or progestin-only pills, which generally have a lower risk of thromboembolic complications compared to combined hormonal contraceptives.

Additionally, it’s important to monitor your cardiovascular health regularly, especially if you decide to use hormonal birth control. Regular check-ups can help ensure that any changes in your condition are promptly addressed, and your healthcare provider can adjust your contraceptive method if necessary.

In summary, while your heart conditions are not classified as severe cardiovascular disease, they are significant enough to warrant careful consideration when it comes to birth control. Be open about your health status on medical forms, and consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the safest contraceptive options for you. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare team will be key to managing your health effectively while considering your contraceptive needs.

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