A new study presented at the European Stroke Organisation Conference has raised concerns over the use of combined hormonal contraceptives in women. According to researchers, women using contraceptives that contain both estrogen and progestogen are nearly three times more likely to experience a cryptogenic stroke—a type of stroke with no clear cause—compared to non-users.

The international Secreto study tracked 608 stroke patients aged 18 to 49 from 13 European countries. Surprisingly, it found that nearly 40% of strokes in younger adults, especially women, were cryptogenic. The study also revealed that while estrogen-containing contraceptives like pills, patches, and vaginal rings increase the risk of stroke and heart attacks, progestin-only methods like the IUD showed no such risks.

Experts highlight the urgent need for more research focused on women's health and better awareness about the risks of hormonal contraceptives, as many women remain unaware of these potential side effects.