Which of the following is an absolute contraindication to prescribing a combined oral contraceptive pill?
- A Current deep vein thrombosis ✓
- B Well-controlled hypertension on monotherapy
- C History of gestational diabetes
- D Family history of ovarian cancer
Correct answer: A. Current deep vein thrombosis
Explanation
An active or recent venous thromboembolism is an absolute contraindication because ethinyl estradiol further shifts hemostasis toward coagulation through hepatic synthesis of clotting factors. Prior VTE, estrogen-dependent malignancy, severe uncontrolled hypertension, migraine with aura, and active liver disease are other absolute contraindications. Gestational diabetes, controlled hypertension, and family history of cancers are relative considerations or non-contraindications, and combined pills actually reduce ovarian cancer risk with prolonged use.
Reference: Williams Gynecology, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.