Teen Dies After Taking Period Delay Pills for 3 Days
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a dangerous condition where a blood clot develops in a deep vein, most often in the legs. If left untreated, the clot can travel to the lungs and cause a life-threatening emergency. Doctors stress that early diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis can save lives, but delays in care may have devastating consequences.
Teenager’s Case Highlights the Risk
In a recent episode of the Rebooting The Brain podcast, vascular surgeon Dr. Vivekanand shared a tragic case of an 18-year-old girl who lost her life to deep vein thrombosis. The young engineering student had complained of severe pain and swelling in her leg and thigh. Medical scans later revealed a massive clot that had extended up to her abdomen, near the umbilicus.
According to Dr. Vivekanand, the condition was triggered after the teenager took hormonal pills to postpone her period for a religious function. Despite taking the medication for only three days, she developed a life-threatening clot.
Delay in Treatment Proved Fatal
The surgeon emphasised that he strongly advised the girl’s family to admit her immediately for treatment. However, her father hesitated, saying they would wait for her mother’s arrival the next morning. Tragically, during the night, the girl’s condition worsened. By around 2 a.m., she was rushed to the emergency room but was no longer breathing.
Reflecting on the incident, Dr. Vivekanand said he regretted not being more forceful in convincing the family, adding that the heartbreaking outcome was a reminder of how critical timely medical intervention can be.
Understanding the Link Between Hormonal Pills and Blood Clots
Hormonal medications, including those used to delay menstruation, can increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. While such cases are uncommon, they can be extremely severe, especially in young women with no other health issues. Doctors advise patients to use these pills only under proper medical guidance and to seek immediate help if they experience unusual symptoms such as:
- Sudden swelling in the leg
- Severe leg pain or tenderness
- Skin discolouration or warmth over the affected area
- Shortness of breath or chest pain (in case the clot travels to the lungs)
Conclusion
The case serves as a painful reminder that when doctors recommend urgent admission, it is often because every minute counts. Delays in critical conditions like deep vein thrombosis can mean the difference between life and death.
Deep vein thrombosis is not always easy to detect, but its complications can be deadly. If you or someone close to you develops sudden leg pain, swelling, or discomfort after taking hormonal pills or even after long hours of sitting still, such as on a flight, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent a tragedy.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 21 August 2025
- 15:00
