Oral contraceptives

Do not stop pre-operatively for routine minor surgical procedures.

If the operation is to be prolonged and the patient is at risk of a DVT (age > 40, malignancy, obesity, previous DVT, immobility etc) then cover the in-patient stay with prophylactic Heparin 5000u s/c TDS and Thromboembolic Deterrent (TED) stockings, or pneumatic cuff etc.

For major operations stop the contraceptive pill 1 month before and inform the patients’ General Medical Practitioner.

See DVT Risks