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Supplement & Herbal Bleeding-Risk Checker
Tick the supplements and herbs you take and we'll flag which ones can raise bleeding or anaesthetic risk before surgery, plus a typical stop-before window to discuss with your team.
Frequently asked questions
Why do supplements matter before surgery?
Several common supplements and herbs can thin the blood, increase bleeding, or interact with anaesthetic and other drugs. Surgeons and anaesthetists often ask you to pause these before an operation so they don't add avoidable risk.
When should I stop bleeding-risk supplements?
Many surgical teams advise stopping blood-thinning supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, garlic, ginkgo and ginger roughly 1 to 2 weeks before surgery. This is a general guide only. Always follow the exact window your own surgeon or anaesthetist gives you.
Is it safe to just stop everything?
Usually pausing a supplement is fine, but some are taken for important reasons. Never stop a prescribed medicine on your own, and tell your team about everything you take, including vitamins, herbal teas and 'natural' remedies, so they can advise you.
Does this checker cover every supplement?
No. This is a conservative, non-exhaustive list of well-known examples. Other products can also affect bleeding, sedation or drug levels. When in doubt, bring the actual bottles or a full list to your pre-surgery appointment.