Protein C Deficiency in Women with Family History of Venous Thromboembolism Considering Combined Oral Contraceptives
Women with known Protein C deficiency who carry a family history of venous thromboembolism (VTE) represent a high-risk thrombophilia group. When combined oral contraceptive (COC) use is under consideration, this combination of factors calls for a structured, evidence-based clinical approach.
Clinical Scenario
This protocol applies to a female patient with Protein C deficiency who has a family history of venous thromboembolism and is considering the use of combined oral contraceptives. Guidelines recommend testing for the known familial thrombophilia in this setting — establishing thrombophilia status is a key step before contraceptive decisions are made.
Management Approach
The structured protocol for this scenario provides specific guidance on the use of combined oral contraceptives in women with high-risk thrombophilia. The full evidence-based recommendation — including the clinical rationale — is available in the complete protocol.
References
DOI: 10.1111/jth.15732
- For women with a family history of VTE and known antithrombin, protein C, or protein S deficiency in the family (high-risk thrombophilia), the ASH guideline panel suggests testing for the known familial thrombophilia.
- The panel suggests avoidance of COCs for women with high-risk thrombophilia.