As college students return to campus during these challenging times, COVID-19 will be their greatest health concern, but there are other important health issues they should not ignore. For example, many women heading off to college may be selecting a method of birth control for the very first time.The birth control pill is the number one contraceptive choice among millions of women of child-bearing age in the United States. While experts stress that the pill is safe and effective, they also caution that birth control with estrogen, including the pill, patch, or ring, can pose serious risks, including blood clots in the legs or arms, and potentially deadly blood clots in the lungs.

Now more than ever, it’s important to understand and monitor our health, and the National Blood Clot Alliance and the Alexandra Rowan Foundation are urging women heading off to college to understand their blood clot risks and take these steps to reduce their risk:* Complete a Risk Assessment, at www.womenandbloodclots.org, and discuss their results with their doctor* Speak with their doctor about their existing risk for blood clots, including any personal or family history of blood clots, and work with them to identify contraceptive options to reduce their riskIt’s also important to recognize the signs and symptoms of blood clots in the legs or arms, including:
Swelling Pain or tenderness not caused by an injury Skin that is warm to the touch, red, or discoloredLeft untreated, blood clots in the legs or arms can break apart and travel to a person’s lung and be deadly. Symptoms of a blood clot in your lung may include:* Difficulty breathing* Chest pain that worsens with a deep breath or cough, coughing up blood* Faster than normal or irregular heartbeatSeek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these signs or symptoms. Acting quickly may help save your life, or the life of a friend or family member.