Hormonal contraception and vascular risk

Hormonal contraception and vascular risk. Since the early 1960, it has been well documented that combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) increase the risk of venous thromboembolism diseases (VTE) and arterial diseases, even if it is an uncommon disease before menopause. Vascular risk is the most important determinant of the benefit/ risk profile of hormonal contraceptive. The most recent pills are associated with a higher risk of VTE than second- generation pill. CHC increase the risk of arterial disease (myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke), especially in women at high vascular risk. This increase does not depend on the generation of CHC. A meticulous research of vascular risk factors, including familial history of VTE, is recommended before prescription. It allows to adapt the contraceptive strategy for every woman according to the bene- fit/risk profile. In context of high vascular risk, low doses of both oral progestin contraceptives and intrauterine levonorgestrel could be safe with respect to VTE risk.