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Are there birth control options that do not raise blood clot risk?
Yes. Some contraceptive methods do not contain oestrogen, which is the hormone most linked with a higher risk of blood clots. These options are often called progestogen-only methods or non-hormonal methods.
For many people in the UK, these can be suitable alternatives if they have a personal or family history of blood clots, migraines with aura, or other risk factors. A GP, practice nurse, sexual health clinic or family planning service can help you choose the safest option.
Progestogen-only contraception
Progestogen-only methods include the mini pill, the contraceptive implant, the injection, and the hormonal coil. Because they do not contain oestrogen, they are generally considered lower risk for blood clots than combined pills, patches or rings.
The progestogen-only pill must be taken every day, while the implant can work for up to three years. The injection usually lasts 12 weeks, and the hormonal coil can work for several years depending on the type.
Non-hormonal options
If you want to avoid hormones completely, the copper coil is a strong option. It is one of the most effective forms of contraception and does not increase the risk of blood clots.
Condoms are another non-hormonal choice and also help protect against sexually transmitted infections. They are less effective at preventing pregnancy than the coil, so they are often used alongside another method or for short-term contraception.
What about the combined pill and blood clots?
The combined pill contains oestrogen and progestogen, and it can slightly increase the chance of a blood clot. The same applies to the contraceptive patch and vaginal ring, which also contain oestrogen.
For most healthy people, the overall risk is still low, but it may be higher if you smoke, are over 35, are overweight, or have certain medical conditions. This is why a healthcare professional will usually ask about your health before prescribing these methods.
Choosing the right method for you
The best option depends on your health, lifestyle, and whether you want something short term or long lasting. Some people prefer a method they do not have to think about every day, while others want something they can stop quickly.
If you are worried about blood clots, ask for advice before starting contraception. In the UK, you can speak to your GP, a sexual health clinic, or use the NHS website to compare methods and understand which ones may be safest for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Non-estrogen options include the copper IUD, progestin-only pills, hormonal IUDs, the implant, the shot, barrier methods, and fertility awareness methods. These are often considered when someone wants to reduce blood clot risk, but the best choice depends on individual health history.
Methods that do not contain estrogen, such as the copper IUD and barrier methods, are generally associated with the lowest blood clot concern. Progestin-only methods may also be options, but a clinician should review personal clot history and other risk factors.
Yes. Combined pills contain estrogen, which is linked to a higher blood clot risk, while progestin-only pills do not contain estrogen and are usually preferred when clot risk is a concern. A healthcare professional can help compare the safety of each method for an individual.
The copper IUD is a hormone-free option and is generally not associated with an increased blood clot risk. It is often chosen by people who want highly effective contraception without estrogen or progestin exposure.
Yes. Hormonal IUDs are a progestin-only option and are commonly included in discussions about reducing blood clot risk compared with estrogen-containing methods. They may still require individualized medical advice, especially for people with a prior clot.
Yes. The implant is a progestin-only method and does not contain estrogen, so it is often considered when blood clot risk is a concern. A clinician can help determine whether it is appropriate based on medical history.
The birth control shot is a progestin-only method and does not contain estrogen, which makes it a common alternative for people concerned about blood clots. However, it still should be reviewed with a clinician, especially if there are other health concerns.
Yes. Condoms are hormone-free and do not increase blood clot risk. They can be used alone or with other methods, and they also help protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Yes. The diaphragm is a hormone-free barrier method and does not raise blood clot risk. It may be a reasonable choice for people who want to avoid hormonal contraception altogether.
Yes. Fertility awareness methods do not use hormones and therefore do not increase blood clot risk. They require careful tracking and consistent use, and their effectiveness can be lower than long-acting reversible methods.
After a deep vein thrombosis, hormone-free methods such as the copper IUD, condoms, or a diaphragm are often considered first. Some progestin-only methods may also be acceptable, but this decision should be made with a healthcare professional.
Yes. People with migraine, especially migraine with aura, are often advised to avoid estrogen-containing contraception because of stroke and clot concerns. Estrogen-free options, such as the copper IUD or progestin-only methods, may be better choices.
Smoking can increase cardiovascular risk, and when combined with estrogen-containing contraception it can further raise concern for blood clots. Estrogen-free methods are often preferred for smokers, especially if they are older or have other risk factors.
Yes. The postpartum period can carry a higher natural risk of blood clots, especially after delivery. Estrogen-containing methods are often avoided early after birth, and non-estrogen methods are commonly considered instead.
Yes. Obesity can increase baseline blood clot risk, so non-estrogen contraception is often preferred. A clinician can help weigh effectiveness, safety, and personal risk factors when choosing a method.
Often yes, but the choice depends on the reason for anticoagulation and the person’s overall health. Hormone-free methods and some progestin-only options may be considered, but a clinician should confirm what is safest.
Yes. Inherited clotting disorders can significantly increase clot risk, making estrogen-containing contraception less suitable. Non-estrogen methods are usually preferred, but medical guidance is important.
Effectiveness varies by method. The copper IUD, hormonal IUD, and implant are highly effective and do not contain estrogen, while barrier and fertility awareness methods may be less effective if not used perfectly.
Side effects depend on the method. The copper IUD may cause heavier periods or cramping, while progestin-only methods can cause irregular bleeding, headaches, or mood changes. These side effects are separate from blood clot risk.
A doctor should be consulted before starting any new method if there is a personal or family history of blood clots, a clotting disorder, migraine with aura, smoking, obesity, recent childbirth, or other health concerns. Professional guidance helps match the safest and most effective option.
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