Increased risk of thrombosis with third generation oral contraceptives is real

A meta-analysis has shown that third generation oral contraceptives carry a 1.7-fold higher risk of venous thromboembolism than second generation pills. Kemmeren et al (p 131) pooled the results of studies that collected data up to October 1995, when four studies highlighted the possible risk of third generation oral contraceptives (containing desogestrel or gestodene). The increase in risk was greatest in first time users and could not be accounted for by biased selection of study groups or in other flaws in design and analysis of the studies.


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Relevant Article

Third generation oral contraceptives and risk of venous thrombosis: meta-analysis
Jeanet M Kemmeren, Ale Algra, and Diederick E Grobbee
BMJ 2001 323: 131. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

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