Background: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare condition (less than 1% of stroke). It occurs in the younger population (less than 50 years old), 3 times more common in women, especially those of reproductive age. Objectives and methodology: Narrative review to correlate CVT with the use of combined oral contraceptives (ACO). The following databases were used: Pubmed, Scielo and Medline. Results: A systematic review had 11 studies included showing that the use of OAC increases the chances of developing CVST (central venous sinus thrombosis). Among the 9 studies that reported odds ratios, the combined probability of developing CVST in women of reproductive age who use OAC was 7.59 times the probability of developing CVST compared to those who do not take oral contraceptives (OR = 7.59, 95 CI % 3.82-15.09). A retrospective study of 37 female adolescents was diagnosed with CVT, 22 (59%) of whom used OAC and the remaining 15 had other etiological factors. The data indicate that adolescents using OAC to treat hirsutism, menstrual dysfunction or polycystic ovary syndrome may also have some risk factors for thrombosis, such as hereditary coagulopathy. The coexistence of these diseases mentioned with the use of OCA can increase the risk of CVT. Conclusions: The two main studies analyzed concluded the association between the use of ACO and cases of CVT in women. It’s necessary to be attentive to suggestive signs and symptoms in this population, as they are common to other pathologies, making the diagnosis of CVT difficult.
Cerebral venous thrombosis and subarachnoid haemorrhage in users of oral contraceptives.