Birth Control and Long Flight
Hi Ladies,
I am freaking out. I have been on BC for 7 years now and am taking the longest trip I’ve ever taken while on it (to Japan-14 hours). I’m having serious anxiety about getting a blood clot. Does anyone have any experience with long haul flights while on the pill and any advice on reducing clotting?
Re: Birth Control and Long Flight
Do you have any kind of history with clotting?
I flew to KS to DC and across to England, then back again and honestly didn't even consider blood clots. Obviously I was fine.
Lots of women take birth control, and many fly on airplanes. I really don't think it's a common risk.
Re: Birth Control and Long Flight
The chances of developing a blood clot are about 1 in 1000 (or 0.01%). Birth control increases your chances by about 3 times, meaning it goes up to 3 in 1000 (or 0.03%), so still *very* small. Anyone traveling for long periods should take precautions, but you can basically eliminate any increased risk by just getting up and walking up and down the plane aisle every few hours. Drink a lot of water, shift your legs/flex your muscles and you'll be fine! You could even give your doctor a call and ask for any additional tips if it'll make you feel more comfortable. But, you'll be ok!