Cerebral circulation disorders in women using combined oral contraceptives

The study is aimed at using combined oral contraceptives (COCs) and subsequent risk of developing cerebral circulation disorders (CCD), which is posed at the fine border between gynecology, hemostasiology and neurology. We discuss risk factors for thrombotic complications occurring upon COCs administration, pathogenetic mechanisms behind CCD, a COCs impact on hemostasis system, and their relation to risk of developing diverse stroke types. Inherited and acquired thrombophilia are discussed as one of the most important factors determining elevated CCD risk related to COCs use. We provide a detailed description of most thrombogenic genetic polymorphisms such as mutated Factor V Leiden gene, prothrombin G20210А gene etc., their role in stroke development, including conditions for COCs use. Special emphasis is made on insights into inherited and acquired АDАMTS-13 deficiency as well as antiphospholipid syndrome as factors contributing to stroke in females receiving hormonal contraceptives