In February 2021, on a Friday, I noticed that my heart rate was getting high with very little activity. By Monday, I was having chest pains and severe shortness of breath. On Tuesday, I decided to go to the hospital because I was concerned about my heart.
After almost passing out multiple times in the ER, a lot of blood work, X-rays, and a CT scan, the doctor came in and told me I had bilateral pulmonary emboli.
I was scared, confused, and alone. The ER doctor said my birth control pills are likely what caused the clots, and then she said I was being admitted. I was hospitalized for three days for monitoring and put on anticoagulants immediately.
Since that day, I have stopped taking the birth control pills. After I was released from the hospital, I started seeing a hematologist who ran various additional blood tests. We found out that I have factor II gene mutation, which likely is what caused the blood clots, in combination with estrogen-based birth control.
Having the blood clots has caused me extreme anxiety over the last few years. It’s something I need to be aware of for the remainder of my life, whether it be long travel, surgeries, or pregnancy. I am very thankful I listened to my body and went to the emergency room when I did because I know this could have ended up much worse. Always listen to your body!
