Final answer:
Discontinuation of oral contraceptives prior to surgery is critical to reduce the risk of blood clots. These contraceptives raise the potential for thrombosis, especially when combined with reduced mobility due to surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a woman does not stop oral contraceptives one week before surgery, she is at risk for developing blood clots. Oral contraceptives, particularly those containing both estrogen and progestin, are known to increase the risk of blood clots due to their effect on the blood's ability to clot. This risk is further heightened around the time of surgery when the individual's mobility may be reduced, contributing to the potential for clot formation. Therefore, it is generally recommended that patients discontinue use of these oral contraceptives ahead of surgery to minimize the risk of complications such as thrombosis.