()– More than 60 millions women in America are now pregnant. Most of these women use some form of birthcontrol. Birth control pills are their top choice. Although birth control pills have been proven safe and effective, there are risks. This is why women need to carefully consider their options when choosing birth control.

A life-threatening blood clot is one of the risks associated with hormonal birth control, including birth control pills. Use of estrogen-containing birth control pills increases the risk of blood clots by threefold. Newer birth control drugs, such as those used by women today, pose a greater risk. Use of estrogen-containing patches and rings can increase the risk by twice as much than birth control pills. Women who have a clotting disorder, a history of blood clots, or both, are at greater risk.

Women who consider hormonal birth control need to be aware of the risk of blood clots.

* Complete the Risk Assessment on the website www.womenandbloodclots.orgTalk to your doctor about their results and the birth control options available.

* Talk to their doctor about any personal or family history of blood clots, and their existing risk for blood clots

Recognize Blood Clots Signs & Symptoms

It is crucial to be able to recognize signs and symptoms of blood vessels in the legs and arms. You may be able save your own life or help a friend or family member.

* Swelling

* Pain or tenderness not caused by an injury

* Skin that is warm to the touch, red, or discolored

If left untreated, blood clots can form in your legs and arms. They may also break down and travel to your lung. You may experience the following symptoms if you have a blood clot within your lung:

* Difficulty breathing

* Chest pain that worsens with a deep breath or cough, coughing up blood

* Faster than normal or irregular heartbeat

If you have any of these symptoms, get immediate medical attention.

The National Blood Clot Alliance & the Alexandra L. Rowan Memorial Foundation have teamed up to provide information for women about blood clot risk and birth control in recognition of National Women’s Health Week. They encourage them to visit www.womenandbloodclots.org.