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Suspected VTE on CHC — DFSRH MCQ

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HardCombined hormonal contraceptionSuspected VTE on CHCDFSRH

A 28-year-old woman using CHC has unilateral calf swelling and pleuritic chest pain. Oxygen saturation is 94%, pulse is 112/min, and she asks whether to stop her pill while awaiting assessment. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Stop CHC immediately and arrange urgent assessment for VTE

Symptoms suggest possible VTE, so CHC should be stopped and urgent assessment arranged. Continuing oestrogen while evaluating suspected VTE is unsafe. Switching to another CHC route, adding aspirin or using EC does not manage suspected thromboembolism. The pearl is that suspected VTE is a same-day safety issue, not a routine contraceptive review.

Reference: FSRH Guideline: Combined Hormonal Contraception; NICE VTE guidance