Áine Rose Hurst, 19, died after a rare blood clot. An inquest heard her contraceptive pill may have contributed.

Headache before a sudden collapse

First, Áine went on a night out on March 8. The next morning she had a headache that kept getting worse.

Next, she collapsed on Tuesday, March 11, and went to Royal Bolton Hospital. Doctors found severe brain swelling, and she died two days later.

High blood pressure and pill decision

In December 2024, a routine review found her blood pressure was 140/93. Nurse Emma Walker checked it three times, then advised her to stop Femodette.

However, on January 6, GP Dr Moyinoluwa Onayade restarted the pill. He said her reading was 130/90 and home checks were 120/70.

Inquest ruling and family concerns

The inquest on November 27 heard she died from cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, a clot in veins that drain brain blood. The coroner said Femodette directly contributed and called it a rare complication of properly prescribed medicine.

Also, her family said they are deeply concerned her recent high blood pressure history was not considered. They described Áine as caring, funny, and the “life and soul” of gatherings.

Finally, the coroner noted rare side effects can still happen. Áine’s family wants safeguards to prevent similar cases.