Family raise awareness after daughter died due to birth control pill

Key Concepts

• Combined Contraceptive Pill: Hormonal contraception containing both estrogen and progestin, associated with a small risk of blood clots.
• Venous Thromboembolism (VTE): The formation of a blood clot in a vein, a rare but serious side effect of the combined pill.
• UK Medical Eligibility Criteria: Nationally recognized guidelines used by clinicians when prescribing contraception.
• Blood Clot Symptoms: Pain/swelling in a leg, chest pain, breathlessness, coughing up blood, severe headache, vision changes, weakness – requiring urgent medical attention.
• Online Pharmacies: Convenient access to contraception, but potentially lacking the regular health checks provided by GPs.
• Ana Rose Contraceptive Safety Foundation: An organization established by the family to advocate for clearer contraception labeling and increased awareness of risks.

The Tragic Case of Ora Rose Hurst and Contraceptive Pill Risks

This report details the circumstances surrounding the death of 19-year-old Ora Rose Hurst (Ona), who died from a blood clot linked to the combined contraceptive pill Femid, after four years of use. The case highlights the importance of awareness regarding the potential risks associated with hormonal contraception, even when prescribed and monitored according to UK guidelines.

I. Background and Initial Prescription

Ona began taking the combined pill (Femid) at age 16 due to heavy periods and mood swings, as recommended by her doctor. Her family initially believed it was a safe option. For four years, she experienced no adverse effects. Regular annual check-ups with her GP were conducted, as standard practice for women on the pill.

II. Blood Pressure Concerns and Re-Prescription

During a routine annual appointment in December 2024, Ona’s blood pressure was found to be high. She was advised to temporarily discontinue the pill to allow her blood pressure to stabilize. However, after a subsequent visit to her GP, her blood pressure was re-checked and found to be within acceptable guidelines. Consequently, the GP recommended she resume taking the same contraceptive pill (Femid). Ona’s family expressed concern about this decision, but she followed the doctor’s advice.

III. The Events Leading to Ona’s Death

Three months after resuming the pill, Ona died unexpectedly. She had spent the weekend with friends and initially reported a hangover. She planned to meet her boyfriend for dinner but later complained of a headache. Over the following days, the headache worsened. On the night of her death, Ona woke her mother at approximately 5:00 AM, complaining of a severe headache and begging to be taken to the hospital. Her mother initially contacted the GP’s surgery, who advised her to book an online consultation. When she explained Ona’s deteriorating condition, she was directed to call 111 (the UK’s non-emergency medical helpline). While on the phone with 111, Ona’s condition rapidly declined; she stopped responding, began foaming at the mouth, and ultimately collapsed. Paramedics arrived quickly and transported her to the hospital.

IV. Medical Findings and Inquest

Hospital tests revealed that Ona had suffered a blood clot in her brain, determined to be a rare side effect of the combined contraceptive pill. Medical professionals determined that the clot was too large and in a location that made surgical intervention too risky. They concluded that even if she survived, she would likely suffer significant neurological damage. Life support was withdrawn, and Ona died shortly thereafter. The inquest ruled that the contraception had been properly prescribed in line with UK medical eligibility criteria.

V. Risk Assessment and Statistics

The NHS states that blood clots affect up to one in 1,000 people who use combined hormonal contraception. While this risk is considered rare (approximately one in 10,000 women), the family emphasizes that many women underestimate the potential dangers. The 102-page leaflet included with the pill is often not thoroughly read, particularly by young women.

VI. Perspectives from Medical Professionals

Dr. Nikita Cananani, a GP, acknowledged the devastating nature of the case and emphasized the importance of informed consent. She stated that while the pill is a “wonderful invention” offering significant benefits to women, it does carry potential side effects, including rare but serious risks like blood clots. She stressed the importance of tailored guidance, open communication between patients and doctors, and awareness of symptoms that warrant urgent medical attention (pain/swelling in a leg, chest pain, breathlessness, coughing up blood, severe headache, vision changes, weakness). Dr. Cananani affirmed that the GP in this case followed national guidelines.

VII. Concerns Regarding Online Pharmacies and Access to Contraception

Ona’s family expressed concern about the increasing availability of the combined pill through online pharmacies. While acknowledging the convenience of online access, they highlighted the lack of regular health checks that are typically provided by GPs. They believe that these check-ups are crucial for identifying potential risks and monitoring patients’ health.

VIII. The Ana Rose Contraceptive Safety Foundation

In response to Ona’s death, her family established the Ana Rose Contraceptive Safety Foundation. The foundation advocates for clearer, more accessible, and easier-to-understand contraception labeling, empowering women to make truly informed choices about their healthcare.

IX. Notable Quotes

• Kerry (Ona’s mother): “This could happen to you. You need to be aware of the symptoms and you need to factor it in as a real risk factor.”
• Dr. Nikita Cananani: “Like any medication it does have side effects and those side effects include…rare and very serious side effects which do include blood clots.”
• Kerry (Ona’s mother): “We just want more awareness around um the potential side effects and what young women are taking and putting in their bodies.”

X. Synthesis and Conclusion

The death of Ora Rose Hurst serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with the combined contraceptive pill, even when prescribed and monitored according to established guidelines. The case underscores the need for increased awareness among women regarding the symptoms of blood clots, the importance of open communication with healthcare providers, and the potential dangers of relying solely on online pharmacies for contraception. The Ana Rose Contraceptive Safety Foundation’s advocacy for clearer labeling and improved information dissemination is a crucial step towards empowering women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. While the pill remains a safe and effective contraceptive option for many, vigilance and awareness are paramount.