Here’s how to avoid getting blood clots on long flights if you’re on the contraceptive pill

Just in case you didn’t know, taking the contraceptive pill can increase your risk of getting dangerous blood clots on long flights. This is a bit of a worry now we’re reaching peak holiday season. Thankfully, there are lots of easy ways you can lower the risk of this happening. Here are some tips to avoid getting blood clots on long flights if you’re taking the contraceptive pill.

Wait, being on the pill can increase the risk of getting blood clots?

Yup. So, sitting still for more than three hours at a time increases the risk of blood clots. Long haul flights are especially bad for this, because plane seats often cause you to sit at funny angles, and passengers tend to not drink much water. Anyone can develop blood clots on long flights. However, people who take the combined contraceptive pill or use other forms of hormonal contraception are at more risk of developing blood clots. This is because oestrogen increases the chance of blood clotting.

According to the NHS website, up to one in 1,000 people on the pill can develop blood clots in their legs of lungs. Blood clots can cause heart attacks or strokes.

@charlottejayasuriya

Always taking care of me #docotor #flyingtips #flighttips #femalethings

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Here’s how to avoid blood clots on long flights

The NHS recommends people minimise the chance of getting blood clots by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol (shame). Wearing loose clothing also helps blood circulate around your body. I guess you should avoid wearing tight leggings on planes.

Walking around as much as possible gets your blood flowing. This is why TikTok is suddenly full of girlies who use the contraceptive pill stretching on planes.

@maddison__xx00

Every hour and half 🤌🏽#fyp #traveltok #emirates #flights #longhaul #travel

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Dr Pallavi Bradshaw, the deputy chief medical officer of AXA Health, also suggests people wear compression socks. These items apply pressure to your legs and improve blood flow. Apparently, sitting in particular positions can also help. Dr Pallavi Bradshaw said: “Avoid positions like crossing your legs or bringing your knees towards your chest, as both of these can decrease blood flow and increase the risk of clotting, particularly in the legs.”

So, there you go. Safe travels, everyone!

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