On April 11, the 108 Military Central Hospital reported two cases of cerebral stroke in young individuals. Both patients had been taking oral contraceptives for an extended period.

The first case involved a female patient of reproductive age who was admitted to the hospital in critical condition.

A few days prior to hospitalization, the patient experienced headaches. After taking painkillers, the pain slightly subsided, and she continued with her daily activities as usual.

However, she later developed a sudden, severe headache and was taken to the hospital in a state of impaired consciousness, experiencing continuous full-body seizures, deep coma, quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs), and dilated pupils.

Imaging results revealed a massive cerebral hemorrhage in both parietal lobes, caused by thrombosis in the superior sagittal sinus and the confluence of sinuses. Her D-Dimer test results were elevated, measuring over 5000 ng/mL. 

Doctors from the Stroke and Neurointerventional Department and the Neurosurgery Department consulted to determine the best treatment approach for the patient.

The patient was quickly intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation, treated with anti-edema therapy and anticoagulant medications. Subsequently, a decompressive craniectomy was performed to relieve brain pressure caused by cerebral edema.

After intensive treatment, the patient regained consciousness, was able to be weaned off the ventilator, could communicate, and became partially independent in daily activities.

The second case also involved a female patient of reproductive age, who came to the hospital with prolonged headaches and progressive left-sided weakness, along with difficulty walking over the past few days.

At the time of admission, the patient was still conscious. Imaging and screening test results showed that she had an ischemic stroke in the right temporal lobe due to thrombosis of the straight sinus, left transverse sinus, and sigmoid sinus.

She was treated conservatively with anticoagulant therapy according to protocol and made a good recovery, being discharged with the ability to live independently.

Notably, both patients had been taking daily oral contraceptives for a prolonged period.

According to doctors, oral contraceptives are an effective and safe method of birth control. However, if used long-term, women should consult a specialist for proper examination, necessary tests, and personalized advice on safe and effective use. It is strongly advised not to self-medicate or extend the duration of use without professional guidance.

Besides birth control pills, women may also consider alternative contraceptive methods such as: intrauterine devices (IUDs), contraceptive implants, contraceptive patches, sterilization (for those who no longer wish to have children), or condoms (a simple, hormone-free method that also offers dual protection).