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.

Effects of Physical Exercise on Lipid and Inflammatory Profile of Women Using Combined Oral Contraceptive: A Cross-Over Study

Abstract Background: The use of combined oral contraceptives (COC) is a risk factor for atherosclerotic disease, and physical exercise can minimize this condition. Objective: To verify if high intensity interval training (HIIT) promotes changes in the lipid and inflammatory profile of women using COC. Methods: Sequential crossover study with women aged 20-30 years, classified as irregularly active by the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ), when using COC. A physical-clinical assessment was performed with anthropometric measurements, VO2max, and analysis of lipid and inflammatory profile. Participants were divided into 2 groups: the initial intervention group (GII), which began practicing HIIT for 2 months, and the posterior intervention group (GIP), which remained inactive for the same period. The GII and GIP would then alternate their conditions. The collected data was divided into: Initial moment (IM), post-exercise moment (PEM) and post-inactivity (PIM). The statistical analyses were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, adopting a significance level of p <0.05 . Results: Twelve women were evaluated. After crossing the GII and GIP data, there was a difference in the C-reactive protein values between the IM of 4 (1.6-6.3 mg/dL) vs. PEM 2 (1.5-5 mg/dL); as well as between the PEM vs. the PIM= 4 (1.5-5.8 mg/dL), with a p -value = 0.04 in the comparisons. There was no change between the "moments" of the lipid profile, although it was possible to notice a reduction in resting HR and an increase in indirect VO2max. Conclusion: The HIIT program was able to reduce the inflammatory profile, but it did not alter the lipid profile of irregularly active women using COC.

Socio-economic Correlates of Body Mass Index, Blood Pressure and Contraceptive Use by Reproductive age-group Females

Background: Oral Contraceptive use, BP and BMI are strongly associated variables in terms of socio economic conditions. Oral Contraceptives are an important and widely accepted contraceptive modality used throughout the world. Aim & Objective: This study aims to examine the effects of socio-economic factors on Body Mass Index (BMI), Blood pressure (BP) and contraceptive use by reproductive age-group females of Uttarakhand. Settings and Design: This study utilizes nationwide data from the Fourth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-IV). Methods and Material: Information was collected from Indian Institute of Population Sciences (IIPS) Mumbai and 17,300 women of Uttarakhand were considered for this study. Statistical analysis used: For inter age-group comparisons of blood pressure, BMI and socio-demographic indicators, analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique has been used. Results: The variation in mean age at menarche was found to be significant (p< 0.01, ANOVA). The numbers of live births over the women's total lifetime were lower in the younger age groups (p<0.01, ANOVA). Conclusions: The important findings of present study were that the use of contraceptive tended to have increased BMI and elevated blood pressure, even though the magnitude of these was little (equal to 4% and 40% respectively).

Fatores de risco correlacionados à alopecia frontal fibrosante em Criciúma, Santa Catarina: estudo caso-controle / Risk factors correlated with frontal fibrosing alopecia in Criciuma, Santa Catarina: case-control study

Introdução: A alopecia frontal fibrosante (AFF) é uma forma de alopecia cicatricial, em que os pacientes apresentam perda irreversível dos folículos pilosos, principalmente em região frontal e tempoparietal. Sua etiopatogenia não está totalmente elucidada, embora hipóteses sobre fatores genéticos, hormonais e comportamentais, como o uso de filtro solar e hidratante facial, já tenham sido descritas. Métodos: estudo de caso-controle, realizado com aplicação de um questionário objetivo com 33 perguntas. Foram avaliadas 60 pacientes do sexo feminino, 30 diagnosticadas com AFF e 30 não acometidas pela doença. Resultados: a média de idade da amostra foi de 64 anos (± 10,37 para casos e ± 9,40 para os controles). 76,7% das pacientes com AFF e 23,3% dos controles faziam uso de filtro solar, sendo a diferença estatisticamente significativa (p<0,001). Além disso, o uso de hidratante facial mostrou-se significativamente maior nas pacientes com alopecia (63,3%) quando comparadas aos controles (33,3%; p=0,038). Notou-se a frequência de uso de sabonete comum na face significativamente menor nas pacientes com AFF (46,7%), quando comparada ao grupo controle (83,3%; p=0,006). Conclusão: nossos resultados sugerem uma possível associação entre AFF e uso de produtos faciais, como filtro solar e hidratante. Todas as pacientes eram menopausadas, reforçando a relação hormonal com a doença

Introduction: Fibrosing Frontal Alopecia (FFA) is a form of scarring alopecia, in which patients have an irreversible loss of hair follicles, especially in the frontal and temporoparietal regions. The etiopathogenesis is not fully understood, although hypotheses about genetic, hormonal, and behavioral factors, such as the use of sunscreen and facial moisturizers, have already been described. Methods: A case-control study was conducted using an objective questionnaire with 33 questions. Sixty women were evaluated, 30 diagnosed with FFA, and 30 not affected by the disease. Results: The mean age of the sample was 64 years old. 76.7% of patients with FFA and 23.3% of controls used facial sunscreen and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). Also, the use of facial moisturizer was significantly higher in patients with alopecia (63.3%) when compared to controls (33.3%; p=0.038). The frequency of use of regular soap on the face was significantly lower in patients with FFA (46.7%) when compared to the control group (83.3%; p=0.006). Conclusion: Results suggest a possible association between FFA and the use of facial products, such as sunscreen and moisturizer, in this population. All patients were menopausal, reinforcing the hormonal relationship with the disease.

Male condom and dual protection use by adolescent men in Brazil / Uso de preservativo masculino e dupla proteção por homens adolescentes no Brasil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To assess the use of male condoms and dual protection by Brazilian adolescent men, as well as their associated aspects. METHODS: A database from the Study of Cardiovascular Risks in Adolescents (ERICA) was used for this national cross-sectiotabelnal school-based research. The sample included adolescents of both sexes, aged between 12 and 17 years old, selected through cluster sampling in 2014 (n = 75,060). This study analyzed information from adolescent men who reported having had sexual intercourse (n = 12,215). The dependent variables were the use of male condoms and the use of dual protection (simultaneous use of male condoms and oral hormonal contraceptives) in the last sexual intercourse. Data were analyzed using univariate and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: Most adolescents used a male condom in the last sexual intercourse, while the use of double protection was quite low. The use of male condoms, reported by 71% (95%CI 68.7-73.1), was positively associated with age, living with both parents, and having used alcohol in the previous 30 days. The use of double protection, reported by 3.6% (95%CI 2.8-4.5) was positively associated with age and studying in a private school, as well as negatively associated with tobacco use in the previous 30 days. CONCLUSIONS: The wide difference shown in the proportion of condom or dual protection use in the last sexual intercourse draws attention to the different logics that govern juvenile sexual relations. The low proportion of dual protection use may be a reflection of men's lack of knowledge about a function that has historically been attributed to women, which is contraception. Thus, one must deconstruct such dichotomy that the sphere of sexuality is of the domain/interest of men, while that of reproduction concerns only women.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Analisar o uso de preservativo masculino e de dupla proteção por homens adolescentes brasileiros, bem como os aspectos associados. MÉTODOS: Utilizou-se banco de dados do Estudo de Riscos Cardiovasculares em Adolescentes (ERICA) para este estudo transversal nacional de base escolar. A amostra incluiu adolescentes de ambos os sexos, com idades entre 12 e 17 anos de idade, selecionados por meio de amostragem por conglomerados, em 2014 (n = 75.060). O presente estudo analisou informações dos homens adolescentes que relataram já ter tido relação sexual (n = 12.215), tendo como variáveis dependentes o uso de preservativo masculino e o uso de dupla proteção (uso simultâneo de preservativo masculino e contraceptivo hormonal oral) na última relação sexual. Os dados foram analisados por meio de regressão logística univariada e múltipla. RESULTADOS: A maior parte dos adolescentes usou preservativo masculino na última relação sexual, enquanto o uso de dupla proteção foi bastante baixo. O uso de preservativo masculino, referido por 71% (IC95% 68,7-73,1), associou-se positivamente à idade, a coabitar com ambos os pais e a ter usado álcool nos 30 dias anteriores. O uso de dupla proteção, referido por 3,6% (IC95% 2,8-4,5) associou-se positivamente à idade e a estudar em escola privada e negativamente ao uso de tabaco nos 30 dias anteriores. CONCLUSÕES: A larga diferença apresentada na proporção de uso de preservativo ou de dupla proteção na última relação sexual chama atenção para as distintas lógicas que presidem as relações sexuais juvenis. A baixa proporção aqui encontrada de uso da dupla proteção pode ser reflexo do desconhecimento masculino sobre uma função que tem sido historicamente atribuída às mulheres, que é a contracepção. Dessa forma, é necessário desconstruir a dicotomia de que a esfera da sexualidade é de domínio/interesse dos homens enquanto a da reprodução concerne apenas às mulheres.

Clinical observation of combined oral contraceptives drospirenone and ethinylestradiol tablets (Ⅱ) in the treatment of dysmenorrhea in Chinese women / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of drospirenone and ethinylestradiol tablets (Ⅱ) in Chinese women with dysmenorrhea.Methods:This was a single-arm, open-label, interventional, multicenter, post-authorization safety/effectiveness study of drospirenone and ethinylestradiol tablets (Ⅱ) across 6 treatment cycles, a total of 526 patients were included in the dysmenorrhea subgroup. Visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess the severity of menstrual pain. Secondary outcomes included unintended pregnancies, bleeding pattern, cycle control and safety.Results:After treated with drospirenone and ethinylestradiol tablets (Ⅱ), VAS of pain had decreased significantly compared with baselines [(49.5±23.7) vs (32.3±24.9) vs (20.7±19.4) vs (18.4±18.7) mm, P<0.01]. From the second cycle to the fifth cycle, the incidence of scheduled bleeding increased from 93.9% (450/479) to 96.4% (431/447). The duration of scheduled bleeding decreased from (5.7±2.7) to (5.4±1.8) days. The incidence of intermenstrual bleeding decreased from 9.0% (43/479) to 5.6% (25/447). 17.5% (92/526) patients reported adverse drug reactions, most frequently reported adverse events were breast pain, nausea, breast swelling, headache, and uterine bleeding. No death occurred during the study. Conclusion:Drospirenone and ethinylestradiol tablets (Ⅱ) is effective for the treatment of dysmenorrhea and has good safety.

Combined estrogen-progestin pill is a safe and effective option for endometrial hyperplasia without atypia: a three-year single center experience / 부인종양

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of oral contraceptive pill (OCP) as therapy for endometrial hyperplasia (EH) without atypia in reproductive-aged women compared with oral progestin. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was carried out in our reproductive center. Consecutive patients diagnosed with infertility and non-atypical EH identified through electronic database who met inclusion criteria (n=309). Patients were assigned to two treatment groups: OCP (n=216) and oral progestin (n=93); clinical and reproductive outcomes were recorded. RESULTS: Reversal of EH to normal endometrium, clinical pregnancy, live birth and miscarriage rate. Women in OCP group were younger, had higher prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and other uterine pathology and longer duration of infertility than women in progestin group. Reversal of EH was observed in 93.52% women on OCP and in 86.02% women on progestin (p=0.032; adjusted odds ratio [aOR]= 2.35; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.06-5.21) after the initial course of treatment for 2 to 6 months. Cyclic OCP (n=184) resulted in better response to treatment compared to continuous OCP (n=32) (95.11% vs. 84.38%; p=0.039; aOR =3.60; 95% CI =1.12-11.55). Clinical pregnancy rate in OCP group was marginally higher than progestin group (87/208, 41.83% vs. 27/90, 30.00%; p=0.054). Miscarriage (25.29% vs. 29.63%; p=0.654) and live birth rate (31.25% vs. 21.11%; p=0.074) were comparable between the groups. CONCLUSION: For the first time we demonstrate that OCP is an effective therapy for non-atypical EH and is associated with higher remission rate compared with oral progestin. Reproductive outcomes are reassuring and comparable between the two groups.

Hormone treatment as first line therapy is safe and relieves pelvic pain in women with bowel endometriosis / O tratamento hormonal como terapia de primeira linha é seguro e melhora a dor pélvica em mulheres com endometriose intestinal

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate clinical features and complications in patients with bowel endometriosis submitted to hormonal therapy. Methods: Retrospective study based on data extracted from medical records of 238 women with recto-sigmoid endometriosis treated between May 2010 and May 2016. Results: Over the course of follow-up, 143 (60.1%) women remained in medical treatment while 95 (39.9%) presented with worsening of pain symptoms or intestinal lesion growth (failure of medical treatment group), with surgical resection performed in 54 cases. Women in the Medical Treatment Group were older (40.5±5.1 years versus 37.3±5.8 years; p<0.0001) and had smaller recto sigmoid lesions (2.1±1.9 versus 3.1±2.2; p=0.008) compared to those who had failed to respond to medical treatment. Similar significant reduction in pain scores for dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, cyclic dyschezia and dysuria was observed in both groups; however greater reduction in pain scores for dyspareunia was noted in the Surgical Group. Subjective improvement in pain symptoms was also similar between groups (100% versus 98.2%; p=0.18). Major complications rates were higher in the Surgical Group (9.2% versus 0.6%; p=0.001). Conclusion: Patients with recto-sigmoid endometriosis who failed to respond to medical treatment were younger and had larger intestinal lesions. Hormonal therapy was equally efficient in improving pain symptoms other than dyspareunia compared to surgery, and was associated with lower complication rates in women with recto-sigmoid endometriosis. Medical treatment should be offered as a first-line therapy for patients with bowel endometriosis. Surgical treatment should be reserved for patients with pain symptoms unresponsive to hormonal therapy, lesion growth or suspected intestinal subocclusion.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar características clínicas e complicações em pacientes com endometriose intestinal submetidos ao tratamento hormonal. Métodos: Dados de prontuários de 238 pacientes com endometriose de retossigmoide tratadas entre maio de 2010 e maio de 2016 foram coletados para este estudo retrospectivo. Resultados: Durante o período de acompanhamento, 143 (60,1%) mulheres mantiveram tratamento clínico, enquanto 95 (39,9%) tiveram piora dos sintomas de dor ou aumento da lesão intestinal (grupo falha de tratamento clínico), sendo 54 submetidas ao tratamento cirúrgico. As mulheres no Grupo Tratamento Clínico eram mais velhas (40,5±5,1 anos versus 37,3±5,8 anos; p<0,0001) e tinham lesões intestinais menores (2,1±1,9 versus 3,1±2,2; p=0,008) em comparação ao grupo falha de tratamento clínico. Redução significativa e semelhante do escore de dor na dismenorreia, dor pélvica crônica, disquezia cíclica e disúria cíclica foi observada nos Grupos Tratamento Clínico e Cirúrgico. Dispareunia, no entato, teve uma redução maior no Grupo Cirurgia. A redução subjetiva dos sintomas dolorosos também foi semelhante entre os Grupos Clínico e Cirúrgico (100% versus 98,2%; p=0,18). O Grupo Tratamento Cirúrgico foi relacionado a uma maior taxa de complicações graves (9,2% versus 0,6%; p=0,001) em comparação ao Grupo Tratamento Clínico. Conclusão: Falha no tratamento clínico em pacientes com endometriose de retossigmoide foi observada em mulheres mais jovens que tinham lesões intestinais maiores. O tratamento clínico hormonal foi igualmente eficaz na melhora dos sintomas de dor, exceto dispareunia, em comparação ao tratamento cirúrgico em mulheres com endometriose intestinal, mas com menor taxa de complicações. O tratamento clínico deve ser oferecido como primeira opção em pacientes com endometriose intestinal, enquanto o tratamento cirúrgico deve ser reservado para pacientes sem melhora nos sintomas de dor com tratamento hormonal, progressão das lesões ou suspeita de suboclusão intestinal.

Abandono, cambio o falla de los anticonceptivos hormonales en población universitaria / Dropout, change or therapeutic failure to hormonal contraception in university women

Resumen OBJETIVO: Estimar la prevalencia de abandono, cambio o falla de los anticonceptivos hormonales que derivan en embarazos no deseados en mujeres universitarias entre 17 y 30 años. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional y transversal efectuado entre el 1 de agosto y el 30 de noviembre de 2018 en estudiantes de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad de Boyacá, usuarias actuales o pasadas de métodos de anticoncepción hormonal. Variables de estudio: datos sociodemográficos, causas de abandono del tratamiento, cambio de método de planificación y falla del anticonceptivo. RESULTADOS: Se recolectaron 615 encuestas, se eliminaron 4 por datos incompletos. El promedio de edad de las estudiantes fue de 20.5 años (DE ± 3.6). El 26.15% recibió asesoría por distintos sujetos y medios diferentes al personal de salud. De las sustancias con interacción con los anticonceptivos hormonales, 25% consumía alcohol. Las principales reacciones adversas fueron: cefalea, aumento de peso y sangrado uterino anormal. Principales motivos de abandono: efectos adversos. El 10.3% de las encuestadas experimentó falla del anticonceptivo. CONCLUSIONES: Si bien el estudio evidencia que la primera causa de abandono fue el cese de la actividad sexual, un alto porcentaje de usuarias tuvo reacciones adversas leves y, de acuerdo con la persona que les suministró la información, se advirtieron dificultades para el apego a los anticonceptivos hormonales.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was the prevalence of abandonment, change and therapeutic failure, which could trigger unwanted pregnancies in university women between 17 and 30 years of age, who have used hormonal contraceptives as a method of family planning. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An observational, cross-sectional study was carried out during the period between August 1 and November 30, 2018, where students from the faculty of health sciences of the University of Boyacá. The variables studied corresponded to sociodemographic data, causes of treatment abandonment, change of planning method and therapeutic failure. RESULTS: The average age of the population was 20.5 years, evidence of the use of oral contraceptives and 26.15% were advised by personnel other than health. Alcohol was the main substance of consumption that interacts with hormonal contraceptives. The main adverse reactions were headache, weight gain and abnormal uterine bleeding. The main reasons for abandonment are related to the presence of adverse effects. The therapeutic failure was presented in 10.3% of the respondents. CONCLUSIONS: Although the evidence of the first cause of abandonment was the life of sexual life, there is a high percentage of users with adverse reactions and, according to the person who likes the information, it can be noticed that there is difficulty in the attachment to the use of this type of medication.

Elevation of Oxidized Lipoprotein of Low Density in Users of Combined Oral Contraceptives / Elevação da Lipoproteína de Baixa Densidade Oxidada em Usuárias de Contraceptivo Oral Combinado

Abstract Background: The use of combined oral contraceptive (COC) has been related to changes in glycemic, lipid metabolism, increased oxidative stress, and systemic blood pressure, which could suggest a higher oxidation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol) in women on use of COC. Objective: To test the hypothesis that there is a difference in the plasma values of oxidized LDL among women who use and do not use COC, as well as to evaluate the correlation between it and the lipid profile and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). Methods: Forty-two women with ages between 18 and 35 years old, who were eutrophic, irregularly active, with triglycerides < 150 mg/dL, blood glucose < 100 mg/dL, and who used or did not use COC were selected. These women were allocated in the COC group, formed by 21 women on COC use for at least 1 year; and a control group (CG), consisting of 21 women who had not used any type of hormonal contraceptive for at least 1 year. A significance level of 5% was adopted for statistical analyses. Results: It was observed that GCOC showed higher values of oxidized LDL than the CG, respectively 384 mU/mL versus 283 mU/mL (p < 0.01). A positive correlation between oxidized LDL and LDL-cholesterol (r = 0.3, p < 0.05), with total cholesterol (r = 0.47, p < 0.01) and with triglycerides (r = 0.32, p < 0.03) was observed, and there was no correlation with the hs-CRP. In the categorized analysis of oxidized LDL, 71.4% of GCOC women, and 28.6% of the CG remained above the established cutoff point. Conclusion: Women who use COC have higher plasma levels of oxidized LDL, and there is a positive correlation between oxidized LDL and other lipid variables.

Resumo Fundamento: O uso de contraceptivo oral combinado (COC) tem sido relacionado com alterações no metabolismo glicêmico, lipídico, maior estresse oxidativo e pressão arterial sistêmica, o que poderia sugerir maior oxidação da lipoproteína de baixa densidade colesterol (LDL-colesterol) em mulheres que utilizam COC. Objetivo: Testar a hipótese de que existe diferença nos valores plasmáticos da LDL-oxidada entre mulheres que utilizam e não utilizam COC, bem como avaliar a correlação entre ela e o perfil lipídico e proteína C reativa de alta sensibilidade (PCR-as). Métodos: Foram selecionadas 42 mulheres com idade entre 18 e 35 anos, eutróficas, irregularmente ativas, com triglicerídeos < 150 mg/dL, glicemia < 100 mg/dL e que utilizavam ou não COC. Essas foram alocadas no grupo COC, formado por 21 mulheres em uso COC há pelo menos 1 ano; e grupo controle (GC), composto por 21 mulheres que não utilizavam nenhum tipo de contraceptivo hormonal há pelo menos 1 ano. Adotado um nível de significância de 5% para as análises estatísticas. Resultados: Foi observado que o GCOC apresenta valores mais elevados da LDL-oxidada que o GC, respectivamente 384 mU/mL versus 283 mU/mL (p < 0,01). Também foi observado correlação positiva entre a LDL-oxidada e a LDL-colesterol (r = 0,3, p < 0,05), com o colesterol total (r = 0,47, p < 0,01) e com os triglicerídeos (r = 0,32, p < 0,03), não havendo correlação com a PCR-as. Na análise categorizada da LDL-oxidada, 71,4% das mulheres do GCOC e 28,6% do GC mantiveram-se acima do ponto de corte estabelecido. Conclusão: Mulheres que utilizam COC apresentam valores plasmáticos mais elevados da LDL-oxidada, existindo, correlação positiva entre a LDL-oxidada e outras variáveis lipídicas.

Use of Combined Oral Contraceptives in Perimenopausal Women / 전남의대학술지

While perimenopausal women have low fecundity, they are still capable of becoming pregnant and the majority of pregnancies occurring during perimenopause are unintended pregnancies. Therefore, even during perimenopause, contraception must be used if unintended pregnancies are to be avoided. However, many perimenopausal women and healthcare providers believe that older people should not take combined oral contraceptives (COC) because doing so may be dangerous. However, to date, there is no evidence that taking COC presents an increased risk of cardiovascular events or breast cancer for middle-aged women as compared to other age groups, and in their recommendations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also do not list age itself as a contraindication for COC. Perimenopausal women often experience menstrual irregularity, heavy menstrual bleeding, and vasomotor symptoms. Taking COCs can help control these symptoms and significantly reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and colorectal cancer. The objective of the present review is to examine the usage methods of COC among perimenopausal women and the health issues that may arise from taking COC in perimenopausal women.

The association between new generation oral contraceptive pill and the development of inflammatory bowel diseases

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To examine the association between use of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) and the risk of developing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), in a modern cohort. METHODS: A prospective nested case-control study across sites in the Asia-Pacific region was conducted; involving female IBD cases and asymptomatic controls. Subjects completed a questionnaire addressing questions related to OCP use. Primary outcome was the risk of development of IBD of those exposed to OCP versus non-exposure. Secondary outcomes were development of Crohn's disease (CD) versus ulcerative colitis (UC), and whether age of first use of OCP use may be associated with risk of IBD. RESULTS: Three hundred and forty-eight female IBD cases (41% CD, median age: 43 years) and 590 female age-matched controls were recruited. No significant association was found between OCP use and the risk of IBD (odds ratio [OR], 1.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.77–3.13; P=0.22), CD (OR, 1.55) or UC (OR, 1.01). The lack of association persisted when results were adjusted for age and smoking. IBD cases commenced OCP use at a younger age than controls (18 years vs. 20 years, P=0.049). CONCLUSIONS: In this large cohort of subjects from the Asia-Pacific region, we found a modest but not significantly increased risk of developing IBD amongst OCP users.

Association between asthma and female sex hormones / Associação entre asma e hormônios sexuais femininos

ABSTRACT CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: The relationship between sex hormones and asthma has been evaluated in several studies. The aim of this review article was to investigate the association between asthma and female sex hormones, under different conditions (premenstrual asthma, use of oral contraceptives, menopause, hormone replacement therapy and pregnancy). DESIGN AND SETTING: Narrative review of the medical literature, Universidade Federal do Tocantins (UFT) and Universidade Federal de São Paulo (Unifesp). METHODS: We searched the CAPES journal portal, a Brazilian platform that provides access to articles in the MEDLINE, PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS databases. The following keywords were used based on Medical Subject Headings: asthma, sex hormones, women and use of oral contraceptives. RESULTS: The associations between sex hormones and asthma remain obscure. In adults, asthma is more common in women than in men. In addition, mortality due to asthma is significantly higher among females. The immune system is influenced by sex hormones: either because progesterone stimulates progesterone-induced blocking factor and Th2 cytokines or because contraceptives derived from progesterone and estrogen stimulate the transcription factor GATA-3. CONCLUSIONS: The associations between asthma and female sex hormones remain obscure. We speculate that estrogen fluctuations are responsible for asthma exacerbations that occur in women. Because of the anti-inflammatory action of estrogen, it decreases TNF-α production, interferon-γ expression and NK cell activity. We suggest that further studies that highlight the underlying physiopathological mechanisms contributing towards these interactions should be conducted.

RESUMO CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: A relação entre os hormônios sexuais e a asma tem sido investigada em diversos estudos. Esta revisão tem como objetivo descrever a relação entre hormônios sexuais (endógenos e exógenos) e a inflamação nas vias aéreas, especialmente na asma, em eventos diferentes (na asma pré-menstrual, durante o uso de anticoncepcionais, na menopausa, no uso de terapia hormonal e na gestação). TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Revisão narrativa da literatura médica, Universidade Federal do Tocantins (UFT) e Universidade Federal de São Paulo (Unifesp). MÉTODO: Pesquisamos o Portal de Periódicos Capes, uma plataforma brasileira que fornece acesso a artigos nas bases de dados MEDLINE, PubMed, SciELO e LILACS. Os descritores utilizados foram asma, hormônios sexuais, mulheres e uso de anticoncepcionais, com base no "Medical Subject Headings". RESULTADOS: As associações entre hormônios sexuais e asma ainda permanecem obscuras. Em adultos, a asma é mais frequente em mulheres do que em homens. Além disso, a mortalidade por asma é significativamente maior no sexo feminino, destacando-se que o sistema imunológico sofre influência de hormônios sexuais, seja porque a progesterona estimula o fator bloqueador induzido pela progesterona e citocinas Th2 ou porque contraceptivos derivados de progesterona e estrógeno estimulam o fator de transcrição GATA-3. CONCLUSÕES: A associação entre asma e hormônios sexuais femininos permanece obscura. Nós especulamos que as flutuações do estrogênio são responsáveis pelas exacerbações da asma que ocorrem nas mulheres. Devido à ação anti-inflamatória do estrogênio há redução da produção de TNF-α, da expressão do interferon-γ e da atividade das células NK. Sugerimos que sejam realizados novos estudos para esclarecer os mecanismos fisiopatológicos dessas interações.

Factors associated with the contraindicated use of oral contraceptives in Brazil / Fatores associados ao uso contraindicado de contraceptivos orais no Brasil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of the contraindicated use of oral contraceptives and the associated factors in Brazilian women. METHODS 20,454 women who answered the VIGITEL survey in 2008 also participated in this study, of which 3,985 reported using oral contraceptives. We defined the following conditions for the contraindicated use of contraceptives: hypertension; cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke/cerebrovascular accident; diabetes mellitus; being smoker and 35 years old or older. We estimated the prevalence and 95% confidence intervals of contraindicated use in users of oral contraceptives and the factors associated with contraindication by prevalence ratio and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS In the total population, 21% (95%CI 19.7–21.9) of women showed some contraindication to the use of oral contraceptives, of which 11.7% (95%CI 10.6–13.7) belonged to the group of users of oral contraceptives. The most frequent contraindication in users of oral contraceptives was hypertension (9.1%). The largest proportion of women with at least one contraindication was aged between 45 and 49 years (45.8%) and with education level between zero and eight years (23.8%). The prevalence of contraindication to oral contraceptives was higher in women less educated (zero to eight years of study) (PR = 2.46; 95%CI 1.57–3.86; p < 0.05) and with age between 35-44 years (PR = 4.00; 95%CI 2.34–6.83) and 45-49 years (PR = 5.59; 95%CI 2.90–10.75). CONCLUSIONS Age greater than or equal to 35 and low education level were demographic and iniquity factors, respectively, in the contraindicated use of oral contraceptives.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Estimar a prevalência de contraindicação ao uso de anticoncepcionais orais e os fatores associados em mulheres brasileiras. MÉTODOS Participaram 20.454 mulheres que responderam ao inquérito Vigitel em 2008, das quais 3.985 reportaram uso de contraceptivos orais. Definiu-se como uso contraindicado de anticoncepcionais quando presente pelo menos uma condição: hipertensão; doenças cardiovasculares como infarto, derrame/acidente vascular encefálico; diabetes mellitus; ser tabagista e ter idade igual ou maior de 35 anos. Foram estimadas as prevalências e intervalos de 95% de confiança de uso contraindicado em usuárias de anticoncepcionais orais e fatores associados à contraindicação por meio de razões de prevalência e intervalos de 95% de confiança. RESULTADOS Na população total, 21,0% (IC95% 19,7–21,9) das mulheres apresentaram alguma contraindicação ao uso de anticoncepcionais orais, das quais 11,7% (IC95% 10,6–13,7) pertenciam ao grupo de usuárias de anticoncepcionais orais. A contraindicação mais freqüente entre as usuárias de anticoncepcionais orais foi hipertensão (9,1%). A maior proporção de mulheres com pelo menos uma contraindicação tinha entre 45 a 49 anos (45,8%) e escolaridade entre zero e oito (23,8%). A prevalência de contraindicação de anticoncepcionais orais foi maior nas mulheres menos escolarizadas (zero a oito anos de estudos) (RP = 2,46; IC95% 1,57–3,86; p < 0,05) e idade entre 35-44 anos (RP = 4,00; IC95% 2,34–6,83) e 45-49 anos (RP = 5,59; IC95% 2,90–10,75). CONCLUSÕES Idade maior ou igual a 35 e escolaridade baixa foram fatores demográficos e de iniquidade, respectivamente, no uso contraindicado de contraceptivos orais.

Tabagismo e uso de anticoncepcionais orais relacionados a fenômenos tromboembólicos: relato de caso e revisão de literatura / Smoking and the use of oral contraceptives related to thromboembolic events: a case report and literature review

Objetivo: Fazer revisão de literatura sobre tabagismo e uso de anticoncepcionais orais (ACO) relacionados a fenômenos tromboembólicos, com apresentação do caso clínico de trombose proximal de artéria mesentérica superior e extensa necrose de intestino delgado em paciente do sexo feminino com coagulopatia provável por associação de uso de anticoncepcional oral com tabagismo. Materiais e métodos: Revisão bibliográfica, com seleção de artigos científicos nacionais e internacionais por meio de busca no banco de dados do PubMed, Lilacs e SciELO. Resultados: A relação entre uso de contraceptivos orais combinados e risco aumentado de doenças tromboembólicas baseia­se na ação pró­coagulante dos ACO, torna­se fator de risco para a ocorrência de trombose arterial e venosa. Já o tabagismo, isoladamente, apresenta risco moderadamente aumentado de trombose venosa em comparação com não fumantes. Ademais, observou­se relação entre trombose de artéria mesentérica superior com uso de anticoncepcional oral associado ao tabagismo. Conclusões: Todos os estudos analisados confirmaram o uso de ACO e o tabagismo como fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de doenças tromboembólicas. O estudo feito com base na história clínica da paciente sugere um caso de trombose arterial secundária a coagulopatia pela combinação de fumo com o uso de ACO combinado.(AU)

Purpose: Conduct a review of the literature on smoking and use of oral contraceptives related to thromboembolic events, with presentation of the case of proximal thrombosis of the superior mesenteric artery and extensive necrosis of the small intestine in a female patient with probable coagulopathy caused by the association of oral contraceptive with smoking. Materials and methods: This study consisted of a literature review, with selection of national and international scientific articles through research in PubMed, Lilacs and SciELO database. Results: The relationship between the use of combined oral contraceptives and increased risk of thromboembolic disease is based on the procoagulant action of OCs, which translates into a risk factor for the occurrence of arterial and venous thrombosis. Smoking alone has moderately increased risk of venous thrombosis compared with non­smokers. Besides that, there is a relation between the superior mesenteric artery thrombosis with the use of oral contraceptives associated with smoking. Conclusion: All analysed studies have confirmed the use of OCs and smoking as risk factors for the development of thromboembolic diseases. The study based on the clinical history of the patient suggests a case of secondary arterial thrombosis coagulopathy by combining smoking with the use of combined OCs.

Clinical use of oral contraceptives

Since first introduction of oral contraceptive pills in 1960, with increased women's right of sexual decision, oral contraceptives had been used widely around the globe as a highly effective and safe contraceptive method. The physiological mechanisms of oral contraceptives were a reduced maturation of ovarian follicles and blocked ovulation to fertile women. Also, oral pills induce uterine endometrial decidualization, thickening of cervical mucus, disturbance of intrauterine sperm movement and embryo implantation. However, in addition to providing effective reversible contraception to fertile women, oral contraceptive pills offer various non-contraceptive benefits to numerous conditions. In this review, we summarize the list of currently available oral contraceptive pills in Korea and discuss non-contraceptive indications of oral contraceptives pills.

Pulmonary embolism in a healthy woman using the oral contraceptives containing desogestrel

Venous thromboembolism is well known as one of the rare but serious adverse effects of combined oral contraceptives (COCs). The COCs with third and fourth generation progestogens were found to have higher risk of venous thrombosis than those with second generation progestogens. We present a case of pulmonary embolism in a 23-year-old nulligravid woman who was using COCs containing the third generation progestogen (desogestrel). At the time of presentation of the adverse effect, she had been using the COCs for 4 months. She had no additional risk factors for thrombosis such as smoking, surgery, tumor as well as genetic factors. This case demonstrates even young women in otherwise good health may be at risk of venous thromboembolism from low-dose formulations of COCs as an over-the-counter drug. We describe this case with a brief review of literatures.

Use of and access to oral and injectable contraceptives in Brazil / Utilização e acesso a contraceptivos orais e injetáveis no Brasil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To analyze the prevalence of current use of oral and injectable contraceptives by Brazilian women, according to demographic and socioeconomic variables and issues related to access to those medicines. METHODS A cross-sectional, population-based analytical study with probability sampling based on data from the Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos (PNAUM – National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines), carried out between September 2013 and February 2014 in 20,404 Brazilian urban households. Prevalence was calculated based on reports from non-pregnant women aged 15-49 on the use of oral or injectable contraceptives. The independent variables were gender, age, level of education, socioeconomic class, Brazilian region and marital status. Also analyzed were access, means of payment, sources, and reported medicines. Statistical analyses considered 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) and Pearson Chi-square test to evaluate the statistical significance of differences between groups, considering a 5% significance level. RESULTS Prevalence of use was 28.2% for oral contraceptives (OC) and 4.5% for injectable contraceptives (IC). The highest prevalence of oral contraceptives was in the South region (37.5%) and the lowest in the North region (15.7%). For injectable contraceptives there was no difference between regions. Access was higher for oral contraceptive users (90.7%) than injectable contraceptives users (81.2%), as was direct payment (OC 78.1%, IC 58.0%). Users who paid for contraceptives acquired them at retail pharmacies (OC 95.0% and IC 86.6%) and at Farmácia Popular (Popular Pharmacy Program) (OC 4.8% and IC 12.7%). Free of charge contraceptives were mostly obtained from the Brazilian Unified Health System – SUS (OC 86.7%; IC 96.0%). Free samples were reported by 10.4% of users who did not pay for oral contraceptives. Most of paying users did not try to obtain contraceptives from SUS. Monophasic combined oral contraceptives were the most frequently reported (71.6%) and low-level levonorgestrel + ethinylestradiol combination accounted for 38.7% of them. The most frequently reported medicines are included in the Relação Nacional de Medicamentos Essenciais (RENAME – National List of Essential Medicines. CONCLUSIONS Most women aged 15 to 49 who reported using contraceptives had access to the medicine and use monophasic combined oral contraceptives of appropriate efficiency and safety purchased by direct payment, mainly from retail pharmacies.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Analisar a prevalência do uso atual de contraceptivos orais e injetáveis por mulheres brasileiras, segundo variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas e aspectos relacionados ao acesso a esses medicamentos. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal, analítico, baseado nos dados da Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos (PNAUM), de base populacional e amostra probabilística, realizada entre setembro/2013 e fevereiro/2014, em 20.404 domicílios urbanos brasileiros. A prevalência foi calculada a partir do relato das mulheres de 15 a 49 anos, não grávidas, sobre o uso de contraceptivos orais ou contraceptivos injetáveis. As variáveis independentes foram sexo, idade, escolaridade, nível socioeconômico, região geográfica e situação conjugal. Também foram analisados acesso, fontes de financiamento, fontes de obtenção e medicamentos citados. As análises estatísticas consideraram intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%) e teste Qui-quadrado de Pearson para avaliação da significância estatística das diferenças entre os grupos, considerando o nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS A prevalência de uso de contraceptivos orais (CO) foi 28,2% e de contraceptivos injetáveis (CI), 4,5%. A prevalência de contraceptivos orais foi maior no Sul (37,5%) e menor no Norte (15,7%). Para contraceptivos injetáveis não houve diferença entre as regiões. O acesso foi maior para as usuárias de contraceptivos orais (90,7%) do que de contraceptivos injetáveis (81,2%), assim como o pagamento por desembolso direto (CO 78,1%; CI 58,0%). As usuárias que pagaram pelo contraceptivo compraram na farmácia comercial (CO 95,0% e CI 86,6%) e na Farmácia Popular (CO 4,8% e CI 12,7%). A principal fonte de obtenção gratuita foi o SUS (CO 86,7%; CI 96,0%). Amostra grátis foi citada por 10,4% das usuárias que não pagaram pelos contraceptivos orais. A maioria das usuárias que pagaram, não tentou obter no SUS. Contraceptivos orais combinados monofásico foram os mais citados (71,6%) e a combinação levonorgestrel+etinilestradiol de baixa concentração representou 38,7% destes. Os medicamentos mais citados constam na Relação Nacional de medicamentos Essenciais. CONCLUSÕES A maioria das mulheres entre 15 e 49 anos que referiram usar contraceptivos obteve acesso ao medicamento, usa contraceptivos orais combinados monofásico, de eficácia e segurança adequada, obtido com pagamento do próprio bolso, principalmente, nas farmácias comerciais.

Pretreatment of normal responders in fresh in vitro fertilization cycles: A comparison of transdermal estradiol and oral contraceptive pills / 대한생식의학회지

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of pretreatment with transdermal estradiol (E₂) compared to oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) on controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) response in normal responders undergoing fresh in vitro fertilization (IVF)-embryo transfer (ET) cycles. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed of normal responders undergoing fresh IVF-ET cycles who received pretreatment with transdermal E₂ versus OCPs prior to fresh IVF-ET. The total days of ovarian stimulation, total dosage of gonadotropins, total number of oocytes, and mature oocytes retrieved were noted. Pregnancy outcomes after ET were also recorded. RESULTS: A total of 2,092 patients met the inclusion criteria: 1,057 and 1,035 patients in the transdermal E₂ and OCP groups, respectively. Patients in the OCP group had a longer duration of COS (10.7±1.63 days, p<0.01) than the E₂ group (9.92±1.94 days). Patients in the OCP group also required higher cumulative doses of gonadotropins (2,657.3±1,187.9 IU) than those in the E₂ group (2,550.1±1,270.2 IU, p=0.002). No statistically significant differences were found in the total and mature oocytes retrieved or in the rates of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, spontaneous miscarriage, and live birth between the groups. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that compared to OCPs, pretreatment with transdermal E₂ is associated with a shorter duration of ovarian stimulation and lower gonadotropin utilization, without compromising the oocyte yield or pregnancy outcomes in normal-responder patients undergoing fresh IVF.