Garlic Extract Reverses Ischemic Heart Disease in Female Rats Exposed to Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills

Abstract Background Garlic is an herbal medicinal plant with several pharmacological properties used for the management of various ailments. However, its potential in the reversal of ischemic heart disease induced by combined oral contraceptive pills is not well reported. Objective This study investigated the cardioprotective potential of aqueous garlic extract against cardiotoxicity induced by oral contraceptive pills. Methods Forty-six rats were used for this study. Six were used to determine the lethal dose (LD50), and 40 rats were divided randomly into 5 groups of 8 rats each. Group A received feed and distilled water. Group B received 0.6 mg/kg of oral contraceptive pills. Group C received 500 mg/kg of garlic extract. Group D received 0.6 mg/kg of oral contraceptive pills + 500 mg/kg garlic extract. Group E received 0.6 mg/kg of oral contraceptive pills + 700 mg/kg garlic extract. The animals were sacrificed, and blood and tissue samples were collected for biochemical and histological analysis. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS, and p values < 0.05 were considered significant. Results The acute toxicity dose of combined oral contraceptive pills was 1.5 mg/kg for albino rats. Combined oral contraceptive pills induced ischemic necrosis as revealed by the photomicrographs, in addition to elevation of serum cardiac troponin-1, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and malondialdehyde levels. Treatment with garlic extract demonstrated significant reduction in cardiac troponin-1 (p = 0.000), lactate dehydrogenase (p = 0.002), creatine kinase (p = 0.001), and malondialdehyde (p = 0.001) levels, as well as restoration of the cardiac cytoarchitecture changes caused by the combined oral contraceptive pills. Conclusion This study has demonstrated that aqueous garlic juice can reverse ischemic heart disease, lessen cytoarchitectural alterations of the heart caused by combined oral contraceptive pills, and thus ameliorate cardiac dysfunction.

Contraindicated use of modern contraceptives among mothers from a Pelotas Birth Cohort

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To describe the prevalence of contraindicated use of combined hormonal contraceptives, progesterone-only contraceptives, and intrauterine devices in mothers participating in the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort according to the WHO medical eligibility criteria. METHODS The biological mothers of children belonging to the 2015 Pelotas birth cohort who attended the 48-month follow-up were studied. The 48-month follow-up data were collected from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019. Contraindicated use of modern contraceptives was considered to occur when these women presented at least one of the contraindications for the use of modern contraceptives and were using these methods. The prevalence of contraindicated use was calculated according to each independent variable and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). RESULTS The analyzed sample consisted of 3,053 women who used any modern contraceptive method. The prevalence of contraindicated use of modern contraceptives totaled 25.9% (95%CI: 24.4-27.5). Combined hormonal contraceptives showed the highest prevalence of contraindicated use (52.1%; 95%CI: 49.3-54.8). The prevalence of contraindicated use of modern contraceptives methods was greater in women with family income between one and three minimum wages, a 25-30 kg/m2 body mass index, indication by a gynecologist for the used method, and purchasing the contraceptive method at a pharmacy. The higher the women's education, the lower the prevalence of inappropriate use of modern contraceptives. CONCLUSION In total, one in four women used modern contraceptives despite showing at least one contraindication. Policies regarding women's reproductive health should be strengthened.

Uma revisão integrativa a respeito de métodos contraceptivos / An integrative review on contraceptive methods / Una revisión integrativa de los métodos anticonceptivos

Os métodos contraceptivos desempenham um papel vital na saúde sexual e reprodutiva, oferecendo opções que permitem o planejamento familiar e a prevenção de gravidezes indesejadas. Este artigo busca descrever os benefícios e desvantagens dos principais anticoncepcionais presentes na atualidade por meio de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, que buscou identificar os achados científicos publicados nos últimos 10 anos (2013 a fevereiro de 2023). A seleção de artigos foi feita nas bases eletrônicas de dados da PubMed, BVS, SciELO e no Google Acadêmico. Para a realização da revisão integrativa foi estabelecida a pergunta norteadora, para possibilitar a busca na base dados: Quais os benefícios e as desvantagens dos anticoncepcionais adesivo combinado, anel vaginal, sistema intrauterino de liberação de Levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG), contracepção de emergência (pílula de emergência), implante hormonal e anticoncepcional oral (ACO). Um dos pontos mais notáveis nesta revisão foi a grande variedade de métodos contraceptivos e suas peculiaridades, que se adequam à necessidade da usuária, sendo, portanto, preciso uma análise cuidadosa do método a ser escolhido. Outro ponto de destaque, foi que apesar dos benefícios dos contraceptivos, também estão presentes os efeitos adversos e possíveis complicações, além das precauções em sua utilização.

Contraceptive methods play a vital role in sexual and reproductive health, offering options that allow for family planning and the prevention of unwanted pregnancies. This article seeks to describe the benefits and disadvantages of the main contraceptives currently available through an integrative literature review, which sought to identify scientific findings published in the last 10 years (2013 to February 2023). The selection of articles was made in the electronic databases of PubMed, VHL, SciELO and Google Scholar. To carry out the integrative review, the guiding question was established, to enable the search in the database: What are the benefits and disadvantages of contraceptives combined patch, vaginal ring, Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS), emergency contraception (emergency pill), hormonal implant and oral contraceptive (OC). One of the most notable points in this review was the wide variety of contraceptive methods and their peculiarities, which adapt to the user's needs, therefore requiring a careful analysis of the method to be chosen. Another highlight was that despite the benefits of contraceptives, adverse effects and possible complications are also present, in addition to precautions in their use.

Los métodos anticonceptivos desempeñan un papel vital en la salud sexual y reproductiva, ofreciendo opciones que permiten la planificación familiar y la prevención de embarazos no deseados. Este artículo busca describir los beneficios y desventajas de los principales anticonceptivos actualmente disponibles a través de una revisión integrativa de la literatura, que buscó identificar hallazgos científicos publicados en los últimos 10 años (2013 a febrero de 2023). La selección de artículos se realizó en las bases de datos electrónicas PubMed, BVS, SciELO y Google Scholar. Para realizar la revisión integradora se estableció la pregunta orientadora, para posibilitar la búsqueda en la base de datos: Cuáles son los beneficios y desventajas de los anticonceptivos combinados parche, anillo vaginal, sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG), anticoncepción de emergencia (emergencia píldora), implante hormonal y anticonceptivo oral (AO). Uno de los puntos más destacables de esta revisión fue la gran variedade de métodos anticonceptivos y sus peculiaridades, que se adaptan a las necesidades del usuario, requiriendo por tanto un análisis cuidadoso del método a elegir. Otro destaque fue que a pesar de los beneficios de los anticonceptivos, también están presentes efectos adversos y posibles complicaciones, además de precauciones en su uso.

Fallo en la regulación de la fertilidad posparto en mujeres en vulnerabilidad social en Colombia / Failured to regulate postpartum fertility in vulnerable women in Colombia

Objetivo: Evaluar la prevalencia de fallo en la regulación de la fertilidad posparto y la asociación con otros factores en un municipio colombiano (2017). Método: Estudio observacional de corte transversal con 148 mujeres. Se aplicó un muestreo no aleatorio para incluir mujeres que hubieran tenido un parto en los últimos 5 años. Se calcularon la prevalencia y las razones de prevalencia. Se exploró la asociación con la prueba χ2 o la prueba exacta de Fisher bajo una significancia estadística de 0,05. Resultados: Se encontró una prevalencia de fallo de la regulación de la fertilidad posparto del 40,5%. La prevalencia se asoció con ejercer oficios del hogar, tener uno o dos hijos, no planificar o no acceder a métodos de planificación y haber tenido un embarazo con periodo intergenésico menor de 2 años (p < 0,05). Conclusiones: Es necesario implementar estrategias para identificar barreras de acceso a la planificación, impactando en el espaciamiento entre embarazos y el acceso a los servicios. Lo anterior para generar múltiples beneficios para la madre, su hijo/a, el sistema de salud y la sociedad.

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of regulated postpartum fertility failure and possible associated factors in a Colombian municipality (2017). Method: Cross-sectional observational study of 148 women. A non-random sampling method was used to include women who had given birth to a child in the last five years. Prevalence and prevalence ratios were calculated. Associations were examined at 0.05 statistical significance using χ2 test or Fishers exact test. Results: The prevalence of postpartum fertility failure was found to be 40.5%. The prevalence was associated with household work, having one or two children, not planning, or not having access to planning methods, and having a pregnancy with an interval between pregnancies of less than 2 years (p < 0.05). Conclusions: It is necessary to implement strategies to identify barriers to access to planning, which have an impact on the spacing between pregnancies and access to services. This will have multiple benefits for mother, child, health system and society.

Uso de anticonceptivos de emergencia y percepción sobre sus perjuicios en estudiantes universitarias colombianas / Use of emergency contraception and knowledge about its harms on Colombian female university students i: en

Introducción: La educación sexual y reproductiva puede prevenir o reducir cualquier daño físico o mental, o ambos, ocasionado por las prácticas sexuales de riesgo y el uso inadecuado de métodos anticonceptivos. Objetivo: Describir el uso de anticonceptivos de emergencia en estudiantes universitarias y la percepción de estas en cuanto a los perjuicios de dichos métodos para la salud. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio descriptivo y transversal, de abril a octubre de 2021, de 372 féminas mayores de 18 años de edad, matriculadas en universidades ubicadas en Medellín, Colombia, quienes fueron seleccionadas mediante un muestreo no probabilístico. La información se obtuvo a través de una encuesta, en la cual se incluyeron variables relacionadas con el empleo de los anticonceptivos de emergencia y la percepción sobre sus perjuicios. Resultados: En la serie, 67,7 % de las jóvenes había usado anticonceptivos de emergencia, de las cuales 8,7 % refirió consumir hasta 3 píldoras de levonorgestrel al mes y 0,8 %, más de 10 durante un año; en tanto, 97,8 % consideró que este tipo de método afecta la salud. Entre los principales efectos secundarios figuraron los sangrados irregulares (65,8 %), las náuseas (31,7 %), los vómitos (31,7 %), la migraña (3,2 %) y los cambios de ánimo (25,4 %). Conclusiones: Aunque la mayoría de las estudiantes universitarias que usaban anticonceptivos de emergencia se guiaban por las recomendaciones médicas, un pequeño grupo lo hacía de manera inadecuada, lo cual se asoció a una baja percepción sobre los perjuicios de este método para la salud.

Introduction: Sexual and reproductive education can prevent or reduce any physical or mental harm, or both, caused by risky sexual practices and inadequate use of contraceptive methods. Objective: To describe the use of emergency contraception among female university students and their awareness regarding the harms of these methods for their health. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted, from April to October 2021, of 372 women over 18 years of age, enrolled in universities located in Medellin, Colombia, who were selected through non-probabilistic sampling. The information was obtained through a survey, which included variables related to the use of emergency contraception and the awareness of its harms. Results: In the series, 67.7% of the young women had used emergency contraceptives, of whom 8.7% reported consuming up to 3 levonorgestrel pills per month and 0.8% more than 10 during a year, while 97.8% considered that this type of method affects their health. Among the main adverse effects were irregular periods (65.8%), nausea (31.7%), vomiting (31.7%), migraine (3.2%) and mood changes (25.4%). Conclusions: Although most of female university students who used emergency contraceptives were guided by medical recommendations, a small group did so inappropriately, which was associated with a low perception of the health harms of this method.

Manejo das irregularidades menstruais secundárias ao uso de contraceptivos ­ análise das recomendações atuais / Management of menstrual irregularities secondary to contraceptive use ­ analysis of current recommendations

As irregularidades menstruais representam uma série de desordens na quantida- de, duração, frequência ou regularidade do sangramento uterino. Entre suas cau- sas destaca-se o sangramento secundário ao uso de anticoncepcionais, uma razão frequente de descontinuidade dos contraceptivos, podendo aumentar as taxas de gestações não planejadas. Boa parte dos contraceptivos pode levar a mudanças no padrão de sangramento uterino, e a abordagem inicial do sangramentos irregula- res inclui a avaliação de outras possíveis causas, o reforço do uso correto da medi- cação, a tranquilização da paciente quanto à benignidade do quadro e à tendência a melhora com a continuidade do uso. Os anti-inflamatórios podem ser usados como estratégia inicial, e, não havendo resposta satisfatória, há alternativas espe- cíficas para cada método. Este trabalho visa identificar as recomendações atuais sobre o manejo do sangramento anormal decorrente de contraceptivos, por meio de revisão narrativa de estudos publicados sobre o tema nos últimos vinte anos.

Abnormal uterine bleeding represents a series of disorders in the amount, du- ration, frequency and or regularity of uterine bleeding. Among its causes, uterine bleeding secondary to the use of contraceptives stands out as a frequent reason for contraceptive discontinuity, which could lead to unplanned pregnancies. Most contraceptives can cause changes in the pattern of uterine bleeding, and the ini- tial approach of the abnormal bleeding includes assessing other possible cau- ses, reinforcing the correct use of medication, and reassuring the patient about the benignity of the condition and the tendency to improve with the continuity of the treatment. Anti-inflammatory drugs can be used as an initial strategy, and, if there is no satisfactory answer, there are specific alternatives for each contracep- tive method. This work aims to identify them current recommendations on the management of abnormal bleeding resulting from contraceptives use, through a narrative review of studies published on the subject in the last twenty years.

Awareness of emergency contraceptive pills among female patients of family planning unit of tertiary care teaching hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat, India

Background: In India, sizeable population of pregnancies are either unplanned or unwanted and thus these pregnancies add to the population burden or the women may resort to pregnancy termination by traditional or harmful methods leading to serious health consequences. Emergency contraception, developed from trials and research during the past 10 years with aim to cut down the occurrence of unwanted and unintended pregnancies and abortion is one most important step being taken to solve the problem. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the awareness regarding contraception and emergency contraceptive pills among female patients of reproductive age group and to evaluate any association between marital status, type of family and family member as a sister, education, and awareness about contraception and emergency contraceptive pills. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among women of reproductive age group over a period of 3 months after obtaining written informed consent. Data were collected regarding demographic parameters, knowledge of different contraceptive measures, and emergency contraceptive pills using an anonymous pretested structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was done using Microsoft Excel sheet and Medcalc software. Results: A total of 253 women were included in the study. Majority of them were married (94.5%), literate (74.7%), belong to joint family (71.5%), having no history of abortion (69.2%), and having sister in their family (76.7%). About 67.2% know contraceptive methods and the most common source of information was a hospital (58.3%). About 15% were aware of emergency contraceptive pills and audio-visual (71%) is the most common source of information. Awareness about contraception was more in literate women and opposite to this awareness about emergency contraceptives pills was more in illiterate women. Those having sister in their family having more knowledge about contraception and emergency contraceptive pills. Conclusions: Awareness about emergency contraceptive pills is very low. Education can play important role either directly or indirectly to create awareness about emergency contraceptive pills.

O impacto do uso de métodos contraceptivos orais na função sexual de mulheres em idade reprodutiva / The impact of the use of oral contraceptive methods on the sexual function of women of reproductive age

Objetivo: Investigar o impacto dos contraceptivos orais hormonais na função sexual de mulheres. Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado por meio do questionário traduzido e validado "Índice da Função Sexual Feminina", capaz de estimar o risco de disfunção sexual feminina. Dados sociodemográficos, ginecológicos, medicamentosos e outros foram avaliados e correlacionados estatisticamente a esse escore, estimando possíveis causas da disfunção sexual, com destaque para o uso de anticoncepcional oral. O estudo foi baseado em uma amostragem por conveniência, incluindo mulheres > 18 anos em idade reprodutiva, de 04/01/2021 a 04/01/2022, obedecendo aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Resultados: Participaram deste estudo 105 mulheres com média e desvio-padrão de idade de 23,4 ± 3,8 anos, predominantemente heterossexuais (84,0%) e bissexuais (13,2%). A maioria delas (93,4%) utiliza métodos contraceptivos, sendo esses anticoncepcional oral (45,3%), DIU hormonal (19,8%) e camisinha (17,0%). A composição hormonal mais utilizada foi levonorgestrel (26,4%) e etinilestradiol (25,5%). Oitenta por cento das mulheres são sexualmente ativas, 69,3% delas têm parceria fixa, 42,5% tinham relações quase sempre e 33,0% referiam que as relações sexuais eram sempre satisfatórias. Houve boa adequação da amostra (0,865) e significância estatística (p < 0,0001). Utilizar ou não método contraceptivo apresentou diferença nos domínios desejo, satisfação e dor. Contudo, as questões do histórico sexual foram as que mais apresentaram relevância estatística em relação aos domínios. Conclusão: Apesar de outros estudos serem necessários para provar a hipótese de que os contraceptivos orais têm impacto negativo na função sexual feminina, é clara a importância de os profissionais de saúde já estarem cientes dessa possibilidade e saberem como abordá-la.

Objective: To investigate the impact of hormonal oral contraceptives on women's sexual function. Methods: Cross-sectional study carried out using the translated and validated questionnaire "Index of Female Sexual Function", capable of estimating the risk of female sexual dysfunction. Sociodemographic, gynecological, medication and other data were evaluated and statistically correlated to this score, estimating possible causes of sexual dysfunction, with emphasis on the use of oral contraceptives. The study was based on a convenience sample, including women > 18 years of reproductive age, from 01/04/2021 to 01/04/2022, following inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The study included 105 women with a mean and standard deviation of (23.4 ± 3.8) years old, predominantly heterosexual (84.0%) and bisexual (13.2%). Most of them (93.4%) use contraceptive methods, these being (45.3%) oral contraceptives, (19.8%) hormonal IUDs and (17.0%) condoms. The most used hormonal composition was levonorgestrel (26.4%) and ethinylestradiol (25.5%). Eighty percent of the women are sexually active, 69.3% of them have a steady partner, 42.5% almost always had sex and 33.0% said that sex was always satisfactory. There was good sample adequacy (0.865) and statistical significance (p < 0.0001). Using or not using a contraceptive method showed a difference in the desire, satisfaction and pain domains. However, sexual history questions were the ones that showed the most statistical relevance in relation to the domains. Conclusion: Although further studies are needed to prove the hypothesis that oral contraceptives have a negative impact on female sexual function, it is clear that health professionals are already aware of this possibility and know how to approach it.

Conocimiento sobre la no adherencia de métodos anticonceptivos ¿Podría disminuir la mortalidad materna?

Introducción : En el Perú, el 78,1% de mujeres, entre 15 a 49 años, utilizan un método anticonceptivo, lo cual se ve mermado por diversos factores asociados a su no adherencia; ello ha generado embarazos no deseados y contagio de enfermedades de transmisión sexual. Objetivo : Determinar los factores asociados a la no adherencia de métodos anticonceptivos en mujeres en edad fértil en el Perú, según la ENDES 2021. Métodos : Estudio de tipo observacional, analítico y transversal. La información utilizada se encuentra en la base de datos pública de la ENDES 2021. La población está constituida por peruanas de 15 a 49 años. El análisis estadístico se realizó con el programa estadístico SPSS versión 26.0. Las variables cualitativas fueron representadas en una tabla univariada con frecuencias y coeficientes de variación. El valor de significancia estadística aprobado fue de confianza al 95%. Resultados : El 43,7% de mujeres no tuvieron adherencia al método anticonceptivo. Hubo asociación significativa para las variables: área de residencia rural (RPa 1,05, IC 1 - 1,1) , estado civil separada (RPa 1,1, IC 1 - 1,1) , estado civil viuda (RPa 1,3, IC 1,1 - 1,5), estado civil conviviente (RPa 1,1, IC 1,1 - 1,2), índice de riqueza pobre(RPa 1,03, IC 0,9 - 1,0). Conclusiones : Los factores asociados a la no adherencia de métodos anticonceptivos en mujeres de edad fértil en el Perú, los cuales se asocian de manera significativa son: el área de residencia rural, el estado civil separada, viuda y conviviente y poseer un índice de riqueza pobre.

Introduction: In Peru, 78.1% of women between the ages of 15 and 49 use a contraceptive method, which is diminished by various factors associated with non-adherence to the contraceptive method, thus producing unwanted pregnancies and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Objective: To determine the factors associated with non-adherence to contraceptive methods in women of childbearing age in Peru according to ENDES 2021. Methods: Observational, analytical and cross-sectional study. The information used is found in the ENDES 2021 public database. The population of this research is made up of peruvian women between the ages of 15 and 49. Statistical analysis was performed with the statistical program SPSS version 26.0. The qualitative variables were represented in a univariate table with frequencies and coefficients of variation. The approved statistical significance value was p <0.05 with 95% confidence intervals. Results: 43.7% of women did not adhere to the contraceptive method. There was a significant association for the variables: area of rural residence (RPa 1.05 IC 1 - 1.1), separated marital status (RPa 1.1, IC 1 - 1.1), widow marital status (RPa 1.3, IC 1.1 - 1.5), cohabiting marital status (RPa 1.1, IC 1.1 - 1.2) , poor wealth index (RPa 1.03, IC 0.9 - 1.0) Conclusions: The factors associated with non-adherence to contraceptive methods in women of childbearing age in Peru, which are significantly associated are: rural area of residence, separate marital status, widow and cohabitant and have a poor wealth index.

Conocimiento y uso de anticonceptivos en relación con la diversidad sexual, Universidad Andrés Bello, 2022 / Knowledge and use of contraceptives regarding sexual diversity, Universidad Andrés Bello, 2022

Introducción: Los métodos anticonceptivos se han utilizado desde hace ya bastante tiempo. Han ido evolucionando con el paso de los años y existen diversos tipos, que satisfacen cada necesidad de los usuarios. Objetivo: Analizar el conocimiento y uso de métodos anticonceptivos (MAC) en la diversidad sexual de los alumnos de la Universidad Andrés Bello (UNAB) entre 18 y 25 años en el año 2022. Método: Estudio con un enfoque transversal cualitativo, llevado a cabo por medio de una encuesta realizada a los estudiantes de las tres sedes de la UNAB de entre 18 y 25 años, con un tamaño de muestra de 140 estudiantes. Resultados: Según las características sociodemográficas; la «edad» mantuvo un grupo control de 70 personas en ambas categorías; en «sede» el 87% de los encuestados pertenecía a la sede de Santiago; en «identidad de género» la mujer cisgénero con un 79% y en «orientación sexual» fueron las personas heterosexuales con un 47%. Conclusión: Existe una relación estadística entre las variables «uso de MAC» y «orientación sexual». También las variables de «orientación sexual» y «tipo de MAC», y «orientación sexual» con «frecuencia en el uso de preservativo interno y externo».

Background: Contraceptive methods have been used since a lot of time, which have been evolved over the years, having a lot of types satisfying every necessities of the users. Aim: Analyze the knowledge and use of contraceptive methods in the sexual diversity of Universidad Andrés Bello (UNAB) students between 18 and 25 years old in the year 2022. Method: Study with a cross sectional qualitative approach, carried out through a survey of students from the three campuses of UNAB between 18 to 25 years old with a sample size of 140 students. Results: According to sociodemographic characteristics; “Age” was maintained in the control group with 70 people in both categories; in “Campus” 87% of the surveyed belonged to the Santiago campus; in “Gender identity” the cisgender woman with 79% and “Sexual orientation” were straight people with 47%. Conclusion: There is a statistical relationship between the variables “Use of contraceptive methods” and “Sexual orientation”. Also, the variables of “Sexual orientation” and “Type of contraceptive methods”, and “Sexual orientation” with “Frequency in use of internal and external preservative”.

Uso de anticonceptivos y conocimiento del periodo fértil del ciclo menstrual en adolescentes

Introducción: La comprensión de los cambios fisiológicos que se presentan en las mujeres adolescentes son fundamentales para el cuidado de su salud sexual. Esto favorece un comportamiento anticonceptivo orientado a la elección de métodos seguros y eficaces. Objetivo: Establecer la asociación entre el uso de métodos anticonceptivos y el conocimiento del periodo fértil del ciclo menstrual en adolescentes peruanas. Métodos: Estudio transversal basado en el análisis secundario de la Encuesta Demográfica y de Salud Familiar del año 2021. La muestra fue de 717 de mujeres adolescentes con registro completo en las bases de datos. Se calcularon recuentos ponderados, no ponderados y se aplicó la prueba ji cuadrado con un 95 % de nivel de confianza. Resultados: El 19 % de las adolescentes reconocen el periodo fértil del ciclo menstrual y 6,3 % refirió que este periodo sucede durante la menstruación. El 80,8 % de las mujeres que cursan la adolescencia temprana, no conocen el momento del periodo. Respecto al uso de anticonceptivos, el 21,5 % era usuaria de preservativos y 16,3 % de inyectables; no obstante, 47 % señaló que no utilizaban ningún anticonceptivo. El 53,5 % de las adolescentes en etapa tardía indicaron que sí utilizan anticonceptivos. Entre las que son usuarias de estos métodos, 86,3 % no reconocen el periodo fértil. Conclusiones: En las adolescentes, el uso de métodos anticonceptivos no se asocia de manera significativa con el conocimiento que tienen acerca del periodo fértil del ciclo menstrual.

Introduction: The understanding of the physiological changes that occur in adolescent women are essential for the care of their sexual health. Thus, this favors a contraceptive behavior oriented to the choice of safe and effective methods. Objective: To establish the association between the use of contraceptive methods and the knowledge of the fertile period of the menstrual cycle in Peruvian adolescents. Methods: Cross-sectional study based on the secondary analysis of the 2021 Demographic and Family Health Survey. The sample consisted of 717 adolescent women with complete registration in the databases. Weighted and unweighted counts were calculated; and the Chi square test was applied at a 95% confidence level. Results: 19% of adolescents recognize the fertile period of the menstrual cycle and 6.3% reported that this period occurs during menstruation. In addition, 80.8% of women in early adolescence do not know the time of their period. Regarding the use of contraceptives, 21.5% were users of condoms and 16.3% of injectables; however, 47% indicated that they did not use any contraceptive. 53.5% of late-stage adolescents indicated that they do use contraceptives. Among those who are users of these methods, 86.3% do not recognize the fertile period. Conclusions: In adolescents, the use of contraceptive methods is not significantly associated with the knowledge they have about the fertile period of the menstrual cycle.

O uso dos métodos anticoncepcionais por estudantes de Medicina: uma revisão narrativa / Medical students' use of contraceptive methods: a narrative review

Anticoncepção são todas as técnicas e métodos utilizados para evitar a concepção. Os estudantes de Medicina se destacam nesse contexto, por representarem uma população em um período no qual a gravidez e doenças sexualmente transmissíveis são emergenciais. Logo, este estudo analisou a eficácia dos métodos contraceptivos na comunidade acadêmica médica e verificou se há ou não diferença na taxa de eficácia, em comparação com a população em geral. Sendo assim, realizou- -se uma revisão narrativa e encontraram-se 2.182 artigos; desses, 1.513 cumpriram o critério de inclusão, porém somente quatro artigos atendiam a todos os critérios e foram utilizados. A conclusão do estudo foi de que a taxa de Pearl é maior na população estudada devido ao mau uso dos contraceptivos, necessitando da melhora na qualidade da educação sexual nas universidades de Medicina ao redor do mundo, a fim de se evitarem a perpetuação da má utilização de contraceptivos e a desinformação no meio acadêmico médico.

Contraception is all the techniques and methods that are used to prevent conception. Medical students stand out in this context because they represent a population in a period in which pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases are emergencies. Therefore, this study analyzed the effectiveness of contraceptive methods in the medical academic community and verified whether or not there is difference in the rate of effectiveness compared to the general population. A narrative review was conducted and 2,182 articles were found, of these 1,513 met the inclusion criteria, but only four articles met all the criteria and were used. The conclusion of the study was that Pearl's rate is lower in the studied population due to the misuse of contraceptives, requiring improvement in the quality of sex education in medical universities around the world in order to avoid perpetuation of misuse of contraceptives and misinformation in the medical academic environment.

Parches transdérmicos anticonceptivos: evaluación de tecnología sanitaria / Contraceptive transdermal patches: health technology assessment

INTRODUCCIÓN: La anticoncepción es un derecho, y es obligación del Estado garantizar el acceso a métodos anticonceptivos efectivos, seguros y de calidad. Se realizó una evaluación de tecnología sanitaria sobre los parches anticonceptivos transdérmicos. MÉTODOS: Un equipo multidisciplinario e independiente designado por el Comité Provincial de Biotecnologías de Neuquén buscó información epidemiológica, regulatoria y evidencias científicas sobre eficacia, seguridad y adherencia. Se analizó y sistematizó siguiendo metodología GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) y CASPe (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Español). RESULTADOS: El único parche autorizado en Argentina para su comercialización libera 33,9 µg/día de etinilestradiol y 203 µg/día de norelgestromina. Su prospecto en Argentina, EE.UU. y Europa lo asocia al doble de riesgo de enfermedad tromboembólica venosa si se compara con las píldoras anticonceptivas que provee el Estado. Esto coincide con resultados de estudios de cohortes de alta calidad. Los parches proveen similar eficacia anticonceptiva a corto plazo, pero con altas tasas de abandono en el seguimiento. La Organización Mundial de la Salud no los ha incluido en su listado de medicamentos esenciales. Los parches son más costosos que otros métodos disponibles. DISCUSIÓN: Sobre la base de los principios de beneficencia, no maleficencia, de precaución y de proporcionalidad, no se recomienda la incorporación de parches.(AU)

INTRODUCTION: Contraception is a right, being an obligation of the State to guarantee access to effective, safe and quality contraceptive methods. A health technology assessment was carried out on transdermal contraceptive patches. METHODS: A multidisciplinary and independent team appointed by the Provincial Biotechnology Committee of Neuquén searched for epidemiological and regulatory information and scientific evidence on efficacy, safety and adherence. It was analyzed and systematized following the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) and CASPe (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Español) methodology. RESULTS: The only patch authorized for commercialization in Argentina releases 33.9 µg/day of ethinylestradiol and 203 µg/day of norelgestromin. Its package insert in Argentina, the US and Europe highlights that the risk of venous thromboembolic disease is twice as high compared to the contraceptive pills provided by the State. This is consistent with results from high-quality cohort studies. Patches provide similar short-term contraceptive efficacy, but with high dropout rates at follow-up. The World Health Organization has not included them in its list of essential medicines. Patches are more expensive than other available methods. DISCUSSION: Based on the principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, precaution and proportionality, the incorporation of patches is not recommended.(AU)

Conhecimento de estudantes do ensino médio sobre métodos contraceptivos: pesquisa-ação em escolas da rede privada / Knowledge of high school students about contraceptive methods: action research in private schools / Conocimientos de estudiantes de secundaria sobre métodos anticonceptivos: investigación-acción en escuelas privadas

OBJETIVO: Identificar o conhecimento de estudantes sobre os métodos contraceptivos, antes e após a realização de oficinas sobre a temática. MÉTODOS: Pesquisa-ação, realizada com 38 estudantes do ensino médio. Foram realizadas oficinas com discussão da temática (audiogravadas) e aplicação de pré e pós-teste em outubro de 2022. Utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo temática para as narrativas e cálculo da frequência relativa para as questões fechadas do questionário. RESULTADOS: As narrativas se diferenciam entre as escolas. Os estudantes acreditam que o dispositivo intrauterino é abortivo; conhecem pouco sobre dupla proteção; e associam a pílula anticoncepcional aos benefícios à estética. Após as oficinas houve ampliação dos acertos e incorporação de novos conhecimentos mensurados pelo pós-teste nas duas escolas. CONCLUSÃO: É importante realizar oficinas no ambiente escolar a fim de reduzir danos à saúde e o Programa Saúde na Escola pode ser um facilitador para o acesso às temáticas da sexualidade e saúde reprodutiva.

OBJECTIVE: To identify students' knowledge about contraceptive methods, before and after workshops on the topic. METHODS: Action research, carried out with 38 high school students. Workshops were held with discussion of the topic (audiorecorded) and application of pre- and post-tests in October 2022. Thematic content analysis was used for the narratives and calculation of the relative frequency for the closed questions of the questionnaire. RESULTS: The narratives differ between schools. Students believe that the intrauterine device is abortifacient; they know little about double protection; and they associate the contraceptive pill with aesthetic benefits. After the workshops, there was an increase in correct answers and the incorporation of new knowledge measured by the post-test in both schools. CONCLUSION: It is important to hold workshops in the school environment in order to reduce harm to health and the School Health Program can be a facilitator for access to sexuality and reproductive health topics.

OBJETIVO: Identificar los conocimientos de los estudiantes sobre métodos anticonceptivos, antes y después de los talleres sobre el tema. MÉTODOS: Investigación acción, realizada con 38 estudiantes de secundaria. Se realizaron talleres con discusión del tema (audiograbados) y aplicación de pre y post pruebas en octubre de 2022. Para las narrativas se utilizó análisis de contenido temático y cálculo de la frecuencia relativa para las preguntas cerradas del cuestionario. RESULTADOS: Las narrativas difieren entre escuelas. Los estudiantes creen que el dispositivo intrauterino es abortivo; saben poco sobre la doble protección; y asocian la píldora anticonceptiva con beneficios estéticos. Luego de los talleres, hubo un aumento en las respuestas correctas y la incorporación de nuevos conocimientos medidos por el post-test en ambas escuelas. CONCLUSIÓN: Es importante realizar talleres en el ámbito escolar para reducir los daños a la salud y el Programa de Salud Escolar puede ser un facilitador para el acceso a temas de sexualidad y salud reproductiva.

Anticoncepção oral e hipotrofia muscular: existe correlação? / Oral contraception and muscle atrophy: is there a correlation?

As pílulas anticoncepcionais consistem na formulação combinada de um estrogênio e um progestagênio ou em apresentações simples de progestagênio isolado com a finalidade de bloquear a ovulação e alterar as condições do útero e das tubas uterinas, bloqueando parcialmente a foliculogênese e a inibição do pico de gonadotrofinas. Desse modo, no que concerne à temática, diversas publicações na mídia de ampla divulgação afirmam que os anticoncepcionais orais têm papel importante na sarcopenia e na hipotrofia, incluindo perda de força muscular e redução do desempenho físico. Assim, o presente trabalho tem por objetivo avaliar, por meio de pesquisas de artigos, a correlação entre anticoncepcionais hormonais orais e hipotrofia muscular. Foi concluído que os artigos científicos especializados no tema são ainda bastante inconclusivos, sugerindo que há indicações de que usuárias de anticoncepcional oral sejam mais suscetíveis ao dano muscular induzido por exercícios, contudo ainda não há consenso.

Anticonception pills consist of a combined formulation of an estrogen and a progestogen or simple presentations of progestogen alone with the purpose of blocking ovulation and altering the conditions of the uterus and uterine tubes, partially blocking folliculogenesis and inhibiting the gonadotropin peak. Thus, with regard to the subject, several widely publicized media publications claim that oral contraceptives play an important role in sarcopenia and hypotrophy, including loss of muscle strength and reduced physical performance. So, the present work aims to evaluate through article searches the correlation between oral hormonal contraceptives and muscle hypotrophy. It was concluded that scientific articles specialized on the subject are still quite inconclusive, suggesting that there are indications that oral contraceptive users are more susceptible to exercise-induced muscle damage, however there is still no consensus.

Antifertility activity of Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz:In vitro and in vivo study on human sperm and male wistar rats

Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz, commonly called as Broken bones tree or Indian trumpet flower, belonging to Fam. Bignoniaceae, is traditionally used as a contraceptive by ethnic people of Tripura, North-East India. Here, we investigated the scientific basis for use of O. indicum as male antifertility agent by folklore healers. In vitro spermicidal activity of aqueous (AEOI) and methanolic (MEOI) extracts of O. indicum stem bark were studied on human sperm. The in vivo activity was experimented on male albino rats. The treated animals were allowed to mate and the pups delivered by female rat partners were counted. Phytochemical estimation of test samples was done using HPLC. The AEOI and MEOI treatments significantly decreased human sperm motility and viability. Test extracts have increased the hypo-osmotic swelling of sperm. Both the extracts were significantly declined the weight of reproductive organ. The MEOI treated rats have shown significant decrease in sperm motility and sperm counts. AEOI and MEOI treatment significantly reduced level of testosterone, but sharply raised dihydrotestosterone and prostaglandin in rats. Results testified the traditional claim for use of O. indicum as a male contraceptive agent, where MEOI have shown reversible action on male reproductive system leading to contraception without harming the libido.

Evaluation of awareness, acceptability, and clinical outcome of postpartum vaginal insertion and intra-cesarean insertion of intrauterine contraceptive device

Background: Post-placental and intra-cesarean insertion of intrauterine contraceptive devices (PPIUCD) is a lucrative family planning method which provides safe, effective reversible, inexpensive, non-hormonal, and long-acting contraception. Aims and Objectives: The objective of the study is to evaluate the postpartum insertion of intrauterine contraceptive device in terms of awareness, acceptance, safety, efficacy, continuation, and removal rate and its complications in both vaginal as well as intra-cesarean section (CS) insertion. Materials and Methods: Prospective observational study conducted in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department GMERS sola for 6 months. Two thousand and ninety-four pregnant women from labor room who delivered vaginally or by CS during study period were asked regarding their knowledge and acceptability for PPIUCD. Results: Total 2094 women evaluated for awareness and acceptance for PPIUCD. About 68.66% were familiar with the concept with 29.99% giving verbal consent for its insertion. About 60.01% women refused for various reasons. Conclusion: This study shows that PPIUCD insertion is a safe and convenient method which requires more population awareness, counseling, and usage.

Intervención educativa dirigida al uso de métodos anticonceptivos en adolescentes / An educational intervention focused on the use of contraceptive methods in adolescents

El inicio de las relaciones sexuales en la adolescencia puede generar problemas de salud biopsi-cosociales, los que pueden ser más complejos sin el adecuado conocimiento acerca del uso opor-tuno de métodos anticonceptivos. La investigación tuvo el objetivo de valorar la efectividad de una intervención educativa dirigida a las conductas sexuales y reproductivas de riesgo en la adolescencia, en dos Consejos Populares del municipio de Quemado de Güines durante el perio-do 2017-2021. Se desarrolló un estudio preexperimental con una población constituida por 1501 adolescentes, de la que se seleccionó una muestra 102 individuos mediante un procedimiento no probabilístico atendiendo a criterios. En el estudio predominó: el sexo femenino (51%), aquellos con edades entre 13 y 15 años (67,7%) y los que no habían comenzado una vida sexual activa (54,9%). La intervención educativa produjo cambios estadísticamente significativos en el contexto de investigación en relación con la información sobre métodos anticonceptivos y la percepción del riesgo sobre su uso inadecuado.

The beginning of sexual relations in adolescence can generate biopsychosocial health problems, which can be more complex without adequate knowledge about the timely use of contraceptive methods. The research aimed to assess the effectiveness of an educational intervention aimed at sexual and reproductive risk behaviors in adolescents in two Popular Councils of the Quemado de Güines Hall during 2017-2021. A pre-experimental study was developed with a population of 1501 adolescents, from which a sample of 102 individuals was selected through a non-probabi-listic procedure according to criteria. The study predominated: the female gender (51%), the ages between 13 and 15 (67.7%), and those ones who had not started an active sexual life (54.9%). The educational intervention produced statistically significant changes in the research context concerning the information on contraceptive methods and the perception of risk regar-ding its inappropriate use

The efficacy of oral Micronized Progesterone versus Medroxyprogesterone Acetate in the control of mild to moderate abnormal uterine bleeding - ovulatory Dysfunction (AUB-O) in adolescents: An open label randomized controlled trial

Objectives@#To determine the efficacy of micronized oral progesterone (OMP) versus Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (MPA) in the control and regulation of mild to moderate abnormal uterine bleeding in adolescents with ovulatory dysfunction.@*Materials and Methods@#This is an open labelled Randomized Controlled Trial. Fifty patients with mild to moderate abnormal uterine bleeding were randomized to treatment with Medroxyprogesterone Acetate or Oral Micronized Progesterone.

Vesico-utero-sigmoid fistula secondary to a migrated intra-uterine contraceptive device to the urinary bladder: A rare urogenital complication

@#Vesico-utero-sigmoid fistula secondary to an encrusted, transmigrated intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) to the urinary bladder is a rare urogenital occurrence. Reported here is a case of a 42-year-old female with 13 years of IUCD presenting with a two-year history of terminal dysuria, occasional hematuria and urinary dribbling. In the interim, she complained of persistent wet stools, pneumaturia, fecaluria and occasional urinary incontinence. Imaging revealed an encrusted IUCD with a concomitant vesico-utero-sigmoid fistula. Patient underwent a single setting colonoscopy, vagino-hysteroscopy, cystoscopy with cystostomy and extraction of encrusted foreign body (IUCD), excision and primary repair of vesico-utero-sigmoid fistula was done. The surgery proved successful, greatly improving the patient’s quality of life. This is the first reported case of a vesico-utero-sigmoid fistula caused by a foreign body both in local and international literature.