Birth Control

[jepuskar]

Are women at a greater risk of DCS or any other diving related injuries while on birth control? Doesn't birth control increase the likelyhood of blood clots and what if any affects would diving have on this?

Thanks,


Jason

 

[chickdiver]

No. There used to be some theories that Birth COntrol Pills led to "microsludging" of the bllod, thereby increasing the probability of DCS in women. However, this hasn't proven to be the case. In fact, Studies have born out that there is a gender bias in cases of DCS. If you really want more research on this, see Medical Aspects of Women Divers (1978) by Bangasser and DCS Risks in Women by Caroline Fife.

 

[Louie]

I've enquired about the relationship between the menstrual cycle and diving hazards on a previous occassion as it's one of those important matters for women and was pointed to some research on women, diving and the menses. Apparently, there's a correlation between the cycle, oral contraceptive use and DCS.

There's a writeup on the DAN website: http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/medical/articles/article.asp?articleid=9

 

[chickdiver]

Louie,
This is newer info than what I have, however, the (brief) article does say that evidence SUGGESTS that women are at higher risk during menses nad that Birth Control Pills MAY be a predisposing factor. However, the article also says that there is no clear causal relationship, this information is based on statistical evidence from the medical histories taken relative to DCI incidents. In Navy and Air Force studies results have been drastically different with regard to the question of women's susceptibility to DCI. Basically, the jury is still out on the whole subject, but no relevant studies have proven that use of Birth Control pills increases a woman's risk of DCI.

 

[divemistress]

jepuskar once bubbled...
I am the resident TROLL!!!

Hi Jason,

There have already been a half dozen or so threads on this topic. Search for "menstruation" in both this forum and "Ask Dr. Decompression", and you'll find them.

These threads, and accompanying links to articles in WomenInScuba, may answer your questions more quickly and efficiently than reposting. (As much as they can be answered, given the limited amount of information available.)

Cheers,

Judith