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.

Does the use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy offer protection against the formation or rupture of intracranial aneurysms in women?: a systematic review and meta-analysis

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review of the literature with meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of using oral contraceptive and hormone replacement therapy as a protective factor in the formation of intracranial aneurysms and subarachnoid hemorrhage. METHODS: This is a systematic review of the literature with meta-analysis, using PubMed and Embase as databases and the PRISMA method. Case-control and cohort studies published until December 2022 were included in this review. RESULTS: Four studies were included in this review; three of which were eligible for meta-analysis. Regarding the use of oral contraceptive and the development of subarachnoid hemorrhage, there was a lower risk of aneurysm rupture with an odds ratio 0.65 (confidence interval 0.5-0.85). In the analysis of patients using hormone replacement therapy and developing subarachnoid hemorrhage, there was also a lower risk of aneurysm rupture with an OR 0.54 (CI 0.39-0.74). Only one article analyzed the formation of intracranial aneurysm and the use of hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptive, and there was a protective effect with the use of these medications. oral contraceptive: OR 2.1 (CI 1.2-3.8) and hormone replacement therapy: OR 3.1 (CI 1.5-6.2). CONCLUSION: The use of hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptive has a protective effect in intracranial aneurysm rupture and formation.

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.

Opinions, Attitudes, and Prescribing Practices of Oral Contraceptive Pills of General Practitioners and Gynecologists in India

Background:To study the prescription behavior of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) by physicians, gynecologists, and alternative medicine practitioners (AMPs). Materials and Methods?Close-ended questionnaire-based cross-section study was performed between 1st September 2012 and 28th February 2014 in three groups of responders, i.e., AMP, general medical practitioners (GMPs), and obstetricians and gynecologists (ObGy). A stratified random cluster sample was used. Data of 400 subjects in all three groups were obtained using both univariate and multi-variate sophisticated statistical analyses for analyzing attitude and practices and were recorded on an ordinal scale using appropriate non-parametric test. Results?Of the 1,237 subjects surveyed, 400 completed questionnaires were received from each of the three groups viz; AMPs, GMPs, and ObGy. Remaining 37 incomplete questionnaires were not included in the final analysis. Conclusion?There are equal misconceptions regarding OCPs among users and prescribing physicians. Preference for OCPs in married and unmarried women is also equally low. OCP usage and their prescription practices can be improved by removing potential barriers, developing public–private partnership, and training promoters.

Factors associated with post-abortion contraceptive discontinuation / Factores associados a la discontinuidade en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos después de sufrir un aborto / Fatores associados à descontinuidade no uso de métodos contraceptivos após a vivência de um abortamento

ABSTRACT Objectives: To assess factors associated with post-abortion contraceptive discontinuation. Method: This cross-sectional study addressed 111 women aged 18-49 attending Primary Health Care Facilities in São Paulo/SP, Aracaju/SE, and Cuiabá/MT, Brazil, who reported an abortion five years before the interview held in 2015-2017. Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox Regression were used for data analysis. Results: Oral hormonal contraceptives, male condoms, and injectable contraceptives were the methods most frequently used. The contraceptive discontinuation rate was 41.8% in the 12 months after the abortion. The pill was the method most frequently abandoned (58.3%); male condoms were the method that failed the most (72.7%), and injectable contraceptives were the method most frequently switched (50.0%). Being up to 24 years old, having ten or more years of education, having three or more children, and a desire to wait longer before becoming pregnant again were associated with post-abortion contraceptive discontinuation. Conclusion: Short-acting contraceptive methods were predominant among post-abortion women. The type of discontinuation varied according to the type of method used. The factors associated with contraceptive discontinuation were age, education, parity, and reproductive intention.

RESUMEN Objetivos: Analizar los factores asociados a la discontinuidad en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos después de un aborto. Método: Estudio transversal realizado con 111 mujeres de 18 a 49 años, usuarias de Unidades Básicas de Salud de São Paulo/SP, Aracaju/SE y Cuiabá/MT, quienes reportaron aborto en los cinco años previos a la entrevista realizada entre 2015-2017. Se utilizó Kaplan-Meier y la regresión de Cox para el análisis de datos. Resultados: Tras el aborto, los métodos utilizados se centraron en los de corta duración: anticonceptivos hormonales orales, condones masculinos e inyectables. La tasa de discontinuidad en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos fue del 41,8% en los 12 meses posteriores al aborto. La píldora fue el método que se abandonó con más frecuencia (58,3%); el condón masculino en el que ocurrieron más fallas (72,7%); e inyectables intercambiados con mayor frecuencia (50,0%). Tener 24 años o más, 10 o más años de escolaridad, alta paridad (3 o más) y desear esperar para quedar embarazada se asociaron con la discontinuidad en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos después del aborto. Conclusión: Las mujeres después de un aborto utilizaron predominantemente métodos anticonceptivos de corta duración, que con mayor frecuencia se suspenden. El tipo de discontinuidad, abandono, intercambio o falla varió según el tipo de método utilizado. La edad, la educación, la paridad y la intención reproductiva se asociaron con la discontinuidad en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos después del aborto.

RESUMO Objetivos: Analisar os fatores associados à descontinuidade no uso de método contraceptivos após a vivência de um abortamento. Método: Estudo transversal, conduzido com 111 mulheres de 18-49 anos, usuárias de Unidades Básicas de Saúde de São Paulo/SP, Aracaju/SE e Cuiabá/MT, que relataram abortamento nos cinco anos anteriores às entrevistas realizadas entre 2015-2017. Utilizou-se Kaplan-Meier e regressão de Cox para análise dos dados. Resultados: Os métodos mais utilizados foram o contraceptivo hormonal oral, preservativo masculino e injetáveis. A taxa de descontinuidade contraceptiva foi 41,8% nos 12 meses. A pílula foi o método mais abandonado (58,3%); o preservativo masculino aquele que mais falhou (72,7%); e injetáveis os mais trocados (50,0%). Ter até 24 anos de idade, mais de 10 anos de escolaridade, três ou mais filhos e querer esperar mais para engravidar associaram-se a descontinuar o uso dos métodos contraceptivos após o abortamento. Conclusão: Após o abortamento, as mulheres usaram predominantemente métodos contraceptivos de curta duração. O tipo de descontinuidade, abandono, troca ou falha, variou conforme o método usado. Os fatores associados à descontinuidade contraceptiva foram a idade, a escolaridade, a paridade e a intenção reprodutiva.

Conhecimento sobre métodos contraceptivos de adolescentes atendidas em Ambulatório de Ginecologia / Knowledge about contraceptive methods of adolescents seen in the Gynecology Outpatient Clinic

Objetivo: Investigar o conhecimento das adolescentes atendidas no Ambulatório de Ginecologia sobre os métodos contraceptivos. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo quantitativo de corte transversal com adolescentes do sexo feminino, acompanhadas no Serviço de Ginecologia. A seleção foi por ordem de chegada mediante agendamento prévio. Após consulta médica, foi aplicado um questionário anônimo e estruturado sobre: características sociodemográficas; antecedentes ginecológicos; conhecimento do uso correto e indicação dos métodos contraceptivos. As variáveis foram analisadas pela estatística descritiva com medidas de tendência central e variabilidade. A pesquisa foi aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: A população estudada foi composta por adolescentes com média de idade de 15,80 anos (+/- 1,3), 48,0% de etnia/cor parda, 84,0% frequentavam a escola pública e 56,0% cursavam o ensino médio. A maioria possuía conhecimento insuficiente/ausência de conhecimento e 80,0% tinham informações sobre contracepção que não envolveu a participação de um profissional de saúde, apesar de eles indicarem o uso dos métodos para a maioria dessas jovens (75,0%). A combinação do preservativo masculino e anticoncepcional oral foi referida em 25,0% das adolescentes. Conclusão: A maioria das adolescentes possuía conhecimento insuficiente/ausente sobre métodos contraceptivos, o que parece contribuir para o uso inconsistente deles. A maior prevalência do uso do preservativo masculino e do anticoncepcional oral associada à baixa participação dos profissionais de saúde como fonte de informação para o uso correto dos métodos ratifica a necessidade de políticas públicas sobre educação sexual para que as adolescentes exerçam sua sexualidade com responsabilidade e segurança.(AU)

Objective: Evaluate the knowledge of adolescents seen in the Gynecology Outpatient Clinic for Children and Youth. Methods: A quantitative transverse study was carried out with thems, regularly seen at the Gynecology Outpatient Clinic for Children and Youth. We selected participants by arrival order. After having their appointment done, we applied an anonymous and structured questionnaire containing questions regarding sociodemographics characteristics, past gynaecological history and knowledge, correct use and indications of contraceptives methods. Those variables were analysed using descriptive statistics such as central tendency and variability. The research was approved by the Ethics in Research Committee. Results: The population studied was composed of adolescents with an average age of 15.8 years (+/- 1.3), 48.0% of ethnicity/brown colour, 84.0% attended public school and 56.0% were in high school. Most of them had insufficient knowledge/lack of knowledge and 80.0% had information about contraception that did not involve the participation of a health professional, however health professionals had suggested a method of contraception for most of these young women (75.0%). The combination of male condoms and oral contraceptives were reported by 25.0% of adolescents. Conclusion: That most of the adolescents had insufficient/absent knowledge about contraceptive methods which seems to contribute to their inconsistent use. The high prevalence of the use of male condoms and oral contraceptives found in this study and low participation of health professionals as a source of information for the correct use of methods ratify the need for public policies on sex education for adolescents enjoy their sexuality responsibly and safely.(AU)

Perfil e fatores associados ao uso de anticoncepcionais orais combinados em mulheres férteis atendidas em um centro de planejamento familiar / Profile and factors associated with the use of combined oral contraceptives in fertile women attending a family planning center

Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil e os fatores associados ao uso de anticoncepcionais orais combinados (AOC) em regimes de pausa (intermitente) ou estendido (contínuo) em mulheres férteis atendidas em um centro de planejamento familiar. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, realizado no Centro de Pesquisa e Assistência em Reprodução Humana (CEPARH), Salvador, Bahia. Resultados: Entre julho e setembro de 2017, 210 mulheres atendidas, consecutivamente, no CEPARH foram entrevistadas. Dessas, 69 (32,8%) fazem uso de algum AOC, das quais 32 (46,4%) utilizam-no em regimes estendidos. Mulheres que trabalham têm 1,89 vezes mais chances de usarem AOC do que as que não trabalham (IC95%: 1,04-3,42; p=0,039). Nenhuma diferença significativa foi observada nas características entre as que fazem uso de AOC em regime de pausa ou estendido (p>0,05). Conclusão: Os resultados indicam que mulheres que trabalham adiam a concepção e utilizam com mais frequência a pílula contraceptiva, independentemente da forma de administração (forma contínua ou intermitente). Ademais, não há nenhum fator que contribua, significativamente, para que as mulheres façam uso estendido das cartelas de AOC.

Objective To evaluate the profile and factors associated with the use of combined oral contraceptives (COC) in pause (intermittent) or extended (continuous) regimens in fertile women attended at a family planning center. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, carried out at the Center for Research and Assistance in Human Reproduction (CEPARH), Salvador, Bahia. Results: Between July and September 2017, 210 women consecutively attended at CEPARH were interviewed. Of these, 69 (32.8%) make use of some COC, of which 32 (46.4%) use it in extended regimens. Women who work were 1.89 times more likely to use COC than those who do not work (95%CI: 1.04-3.42; p=0.039). No significant difference was observed in characteristics among those who use COC in a paused or extended regime (p>0.05). Conclusion: The results indicate that working women postpone conception and use the contraceptive pill more frequently, regardless of the form of administration (continuous or intermittent). Moreover, there is no factor that contributes, significantly, for women to make extended use of COC cards.

A study to compare acceptability, safety and continuation rates of combined hormonal pill and centchroman as post abortion contraceptives

Background: Centchroman a non-steroidal selective estrogen receptor modifier (SERM). It is highly effective contraceptive which is devoid of side effects of COCs and there is prompt return of fertility upon discontinuation. Data in terms of its acceptability and continuation rates is limited when compared to combined oral contraceptive (COC). Therefore, the study was planned to study the acceptability, efficacy and continuation rates of centchroman and compare it with the combined oral contraceptives.Methods: The study was a prospective interventional comparative randomized study carried out in the department of obstetrics and gynecology VMMC and SJH, New Delhi, for a period of 18 months from November 2018 to April 2019.Results: A total of 945 women were screened and finally 240 women who met the criteria were recruited in 2 study groups of 120 women each. Majority were in the age group 18-28 years in either groups. Patients were followed up at 2nd week and then at 1st, 3rd, 6th and 12th months after initiation of the OCP with no loss to follow up. The pearl index in this study was 0.83 for ormeloxifene. The study showed statistically significant differences with higher level of satisfaction reported with 77.5% in the ormeloxifene compared to 65% of COCs. The continuation rates for ormeloxifene and COC users were in decreasing trend with increase in duration. No untoward events were reported with either formulation.Conclusions: Both the hormonal, combined hormonal contraceptive [combined oral contraceptive (COC), MALA-N] and the non-hormonal, centchroman (ormeloxifene) oral contraceptive pills are safe, effective, well tolerated and not associated with adverse outcomes when used immediately after abortion. Continuation rates of the pills in both the groups decrease in trend with time.

A study to compare the efficacy, acceptability and side effect of combined contraceptive vaginal ring with the combined oral contraceptive pills in a tertiary health centre located in central India

Background: A study to compare the efficacy, acceptability and side effect of combined contraceptive vaginal ring with the combined oral contraceptive pills in a tertiary health centre (RKDF Medical College and Research Centre, Bhopal) located in central India.Methods: This prospective randomized comparative trial enrolled hundred women aged between 20 to 40 years seeking for contraception with no contraindication to hormonal contraception. After proper counseling and informed consent, women divided into two groups, study group (50) includes women using contraceptive vaginal ring and control group (50) include women using combined oral contraceptives. The contraceptive efficacy, acceptability, tolerability and adverse events were recorded at each follow-up visit at RKDF Medical College and Research Centre, Bhopal.Results: Vaginal ring and combined oral contraceptives were found to have comparable contraceptive efficacy. In study group no pregnancy reported during study period while one pregnancy reported in control group, which was statistically insignificant. Satisfaction, continuation and recommendation to others were more with vaginal ring which were not significant statistically. Cycle control is superior with vaginal ring. Incidence of adverse effects was same in both groups.Conclusions: Combined contraceptive vaginal ring is an effective and reliable contraception with excellent cycle control, well-tolerated and highly acceptable to most women.

A randomized controlled trial to study the efficacy of intravaginal hormonal ring for control of heavy menstrual bleeding as compared to combined oral contraceptive pills

Background: Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is one of the commonest presenting complaints in reproductive age group. Although combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are commonly used in such patients, combined hormones by intravaginal route has been found acceptable and effective. Aim of the study is to compare the efficacy and side effects of combined intravaginal hormonal ring (IHR) with COCs in control of HMB in these patients.Methods: Hundred women with HMB fulfilling inclusion criteria were randomized into two equal groups and treated with either IHR or COCs for three cycles. Each cycle consisted of three weeks of IHR/COC use followed by 1-week ring-free/non-hormonal pills period. Outcome measures were change in PBAC score (pictorial blood loss assessment chart), hemoglobin rise, side effects and overall patient satisfaction.Results: The percentage reduction in PBAC score, the duration of menses and increase in hemoglobin levels were statistically significant at the end of study in each group. The PBAC score reduction was 87.37% vs 61.52%, menses duration was 4.24±0.74 versus 5.16±1.67, and hemoglobin increase was 3.16 (95% CI:0.142-1.412) and 1.24 (95% CI:1.048-1.640) in the IHR versus COC group. However, the intergroup reduction of mean PBAC score was not statistically significant. Significantly more ring users were satisfied and elected to continue with treatment.Conclusions: Both the IHR and COCs are effective treatments for HMB in reproductive age group. IHR may be an attractive option for HMB due to better compliance and lesser systemic side-effects.

Ormeloxifene versus combined oral contraceptive pills to control blood loss in cases of dysfunctional uterine bleeding

Background: Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is one of the most often encountered gynecologic problems causing anemia, reduced quality of life and unnecessary hysterectomies. A prospective study was conducted on women with DUB to study the effect of ormeloxifene versus combined oral contraceptive pills in controlling blood loss in them.Methods: 100 Women with DUB were enrolled randomly in three groups. After baseline assessment each patient in group A was treated with iron tablets, containing 100 mg elemental iron and folic acid 1.5 mg, for three months and were termed as control group. Group B patients were treated with ormeloxifene in dose of 60 mg twice a week for twelve weeks. Group C patients were treated with combined oral contraceptive pills for twenty- one days starting from third day of their LMP. The treatment was continued for three consecutive cycles. The efficacy of the studied drugs was analyzed by comparing the baseline and post treatment PBAC score, haemoglobin level and endometrial thickness, using appropriate statistical tests.Results: Ormeloxifene was more effective than only iron or combined oral contraceptive therapy in controlling menstrual blood loss (79.11% versus 58.57%). There was a reduction in endometrial thickness in group receiving ormeloxifene as well as in the group receiving combined oral contraceptive pills (p=0.486), however this was statistically not significant.Conclusions: Ormeloxifene was significantly better than combined OCP in reduction of menstrual blood flow in cases of DUB. It has better compliance and marked improvement in subjective symptoms as compared to OCP.

Oral Contraceptive Pills: Socio-demographic Characteristics of Acceptors at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

Background:Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs) are the most widely prescribed form of hormonal contraception both in developed and developing countries. They are also the most popular non-surgical method of contraception.Objective:To determine the prevalence rate and socio-demographic characteristics of oral contraceptive pills acceptors at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH), Port Harcourt.Methods:A 10 year review of all clients who accepted oral contraceptive pills in the family planning clinic of the hospital from 1stJanuary, 2008 to 31stDecember, 2017. Data was extracted, coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) IBM version 25.0 (Armonk, NY). Results:There were 1893 contraceptive acceptors during the study period, out of which 86 (4.5%) accepted the oral pills. Majority of the clients 66 (76.8%) were between the age range of 20 to 34 married 82 (95.3%), multiparous 48 (55.8%), Christians 82 (95.3%) and 82 (95.3%) had formal education. Clinical personnel were the commonest source of information on the use of oral contraceptive pills, accounting for 36 (41.8%).Conclusion:Oral contraceptive pills are methods of contraception used by young, multiparous and educated women. Only 4.5% of the women accepted OCPs during the study period therefore concerted efforts should be made to improve its uptake in the family planning clinic

A Review of the Effects of Oral Contraceptives on Nutrient Status, with Especial Consideration to Folate in UK

Oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely used by a significant number of women, often commencing at early adolescence. Whilst most research has investigated the physiological effects of OCs, some studies have identified impacts upon nutritional status of certain vitamins and minerals. In this context, a report published by the World Health Organization (WHO) is relevant, since women who take OCs-especially in less well-developed countries might not always have adequate diet. Furthermore, women whose life style is unhealthy, those with malabsorption pathologies, or have genetic polymorphisms that affect vitamin metabolism might also be at risk of the negative impacts on an individual’s nutrient status. This literature review investigates the effects that oral contraceptives might have upon nutrient status. It identifies potential interactions with Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, and E and folic acid as well as magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, co-enzyme Q10, and beta-carotene status. It then examines the possible consequences that induced depletion of folic acid might cause with especial focus on neural tubes defects in UK, where food supplementation with this vitamin is not yet mandatory. It suggests that in those using this form of contraception or hormone replacement therapy, it is valid to consider appropriate nutritional supplements as a complementary first line strategy in order to prevent possible vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis in females in the reproductive age group

Background: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common infection among reproductive age group females. The objective of present study is to determine the prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis, its distribution and association of risk factors among reproductive age group females, attending the outpatient department of obstetrics and gynaecology of our Prime Medical Centre, Sharjah attached with Prime Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).Methods: It was cross-sectional descriptive study over a period of six months. Patients who came to our outpatient department with complains of vaginal discharge and itching in reproductive age group were included in this study. Patients characteristics i.e. age, parity, risk factors like diabetes, pregnancy, use of oral contraceptive pills (OCPills) and intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) were noted. High vaginal swabs (HVS) were collected and sent for culture. Candida positive cases were noted, and results were analyzed.Results: A total of 224 high vaginal swabs were collected. Prevalence of vulvovaginal candidiasis was found to be 31.6%. It was found more in 26-30 years age group and multiparous women. Previous history of candidiasis and diabetes were the commonest risk factors. Frequency of C. albicans was more (76.05%) than non-albicans candida (23.94%).Conclusions: Present study concluded that vulvovaginal candidiasis is more prevalent in reproductive age group females, therefore a routine high vaginal swab culture must be performed in every woman presenting with vaginal discharge and itching for correct diagnosis. Women should be educated on clinical symptoms.

Effect of six-month use of oral contraceptive pills on plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 & factor VIII among women with polycystic ovary syndrome: An observational pilot study

Background & objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrinopathy warranting lifelong individualized management by lifestyle and pharmacological agents mainly oral contraceptive pills (OCPs). This study was aimed to report the impact of six-month OCP use on plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and factor VIII (FVIII) in women with PCOS. Methods: PCOS women diagnosed on the basis of Rotterdam 2003 criteria, either treated with OCPs (ethinyl estradiol-0.03 mg, levonorgestrel-0.15 mg) for a period of six months (n=40) or drug-naïve (n=42), were enrolled in this study. Blood was drawn to estimate glucose, insulin levels and lipid profile. Chemiluminescence immunoassays were used to measure hormones (LH, FSH, PRL, T4). Plasma levels of PAI-I and FVIII were measured by commercially available kits. Results: Menstrual regularity, Ferriman-Gallwey score and serum total testosterone significantly improved in the OCP group compared to drug-naïve group (P<0.01). No significant difference was observed in PAI-1 levels of the two groups; however, significant decrease in FVIII levels was observed in OCP group as compared to drug-naïve group. PAI-1 levels of OCP group correlated positively with blood glucose two hours, triglycerides and insulin two hours, while FVIII levels of OCP group correlated negatively with fasting insulin and homoeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance. Interpretation & conclusions: OCPs use has differential effect on pro-coagulant markers among women with PCOS. Well-designed, long-term, prospective, large-scale studies are prerequisite to elucidate the efficacy and safety of OCP in the treatment of PCOS.

Effect Of Synthetic Progesterone (norethisterone) On Human Chromosomes: A Cytogenetic Study From India

Birth restriction methods dates back to prehistoric times, half a million years ago. Modern contraceptive methodsconstitute most contraceptive use. Nearly 800 million married or in-union women are projected to be usingcontraception in 2030. Norethisterone (synthetic progesterone) is used for many therapeutic purposes, and isbeing used by millions of women in India. The present study was carried out during August 2009 to July 2011 onsixty fertile females within reproductive age group. Chromosomal analysis was carried out to find the effects ofsynthetic progesterone (Norethisterone) on human chromosomes in lymphocyte culture in vitro in three groups at0, 75 µg, 100 µg of drug per ml respectively and observed for chromosomal aberrations like break, gap, dicentricchromosome and chromosomal association. Chromosomal aberrations were significantly increased at higherconcentrations. Mean chromosomal gaps at 0µg/ml, 75µg/ml and 100 µg/ml concentration were 6.90, 7.62 and10.58 respectively and mean chromosomal breaks in that same concentration were 6.63, 7.28 and 10.08respectively. 30 samples of the 60 showed chromosomal associations and 5 showed dicentric chromosomes.There is a direct correlation between increase in concentration of Norethisterone and structural chromosomalaberrations, which may be carried to next generation, and lead to anomalies in progeny of woman taking suchhigh doses of synthetic progesterone

Subacute Combined Degeneration in a Patient with Long-Term Oral Contraceptive Use

No abstract available.

Síndrome de ovario poliquístico / Polycystic ovary syndrome

El síndrome de ovario poliquísticos (SOP) representa una de las endocrinopatías más frecuentes en la mujer y es la principal causa de hiperandrogenismo (HA). Se trata de un trastorno complejo, multifactorial, poligénico con influencias ambientales. Aunque se han propuestos diferentes criterios para su diagnóstico, se prefiere el uso del más abarcativo (Criterio de Rotterdam) con la presencia de 2 de 3 de los siguientes: 1) HA clínico o bioquímico, 2) oligoanovulación crónica (OA), 3) poliquistosis ovárica por ecografía, excluyendo otras etiologías. Es frecuente su asociación con comorbilidades metabólicas (obesidad, diabetes 2, dislipidemia, apnea del sueño, etc.) y trastornos reproductivos (hiperplasia endometrial e infertilidad), sobre todo en los fenotipos clásicos, con HA y OA. El tratamiento estará orientado a las características clínicas de cada paciente y al deseo reproductivo. La pérdida de peso en aquellas con sobrepeso u obesidad o ambos factores puede restaurar los ciclos menstruales y disminuir el riesgo metabólico y representa la primera línea de tratamiento. Los anticonceptivos orales (ACO) son el tratamiento farmacológico de elección ya que atenúan las manifestaciones de HA y ofrecen protección endometrial. En las pacientes con oligoanovulación que buscan embarazo, el citrato de clomifeno es el tratamiento aconsejado en primera instancia. La metformina podría usarse en aquellas con intolerancia a la glucosa o diabetes 2 y también como segunda línea de tratamiento para restaurar los ciclos e inducir la ovulación. (AU)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women, the main cause of hyperandrogenism (HA). It is a complex, multifactorial polygenic disorder with environmental influences. Although there have been proposed different criteria for diagnosis, using the most comprehensive (Criteria Rotterdam) with the presence of 2 of 3 of the following is preferred: 1) HA clinical or biochemical, 2) oligo-anovulation chronic (OA), 3) polycystic ovaries by ultrasound, excluding other etiologies. It is frequently associated with metabolic comorbidities (obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, sleep apnea, etc.) and reproductive disorders (endometrial hyperplasia and infertility), especially in the classical phenotypes, with HA and OA. The treatment will be oriented to the clinical characteristics of each patient and reproductive desire. Weight loss in those who are overweight and / or obesity can restore menstrual cycles and decrease metabolic risk and represents the first line of treatment. Oral contraceptives (OC) are the pharmacological treatment of choice as it attenuates the manifestations of HA and offer endometrial protection. In patients seeking pregnancy with oligo-anovulation, clomiphene citrate would be used at first instance. Metformin may be used in those with impaired glucose tolerance or type 2 diabetes and also as a second-line treatment to restore cycles and induce ovulation. (AU)

Female sexual dysfunction with combined oral contraceptive use

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCs) remain one of the most popular forms of contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancy in women. While it is known that COCs can cause sexual dysfunction in women, there is currently no recommendation to screen for sexual function before and after initiation of COCs. We propose that, based on the evidence available, assessment of sexual function should be done at initiation of COCs, as well as at regular intervals thereafter. This would allow COC-related sexual dysfunction to be managed early, such as by switching the patient to newer-generation COCs or other forms of contraception.

A perspective on current research investigating the effects of hormonal contraceptives on determinants of female athlete performance

Abstract Hormonal contraceptives are used by approximately half of female athletes and may affect athletic performance as a result of their action on the endogenous hormonal milieu. In athletes, hormonal contraceptive use appears to have little effect on body composition, however further studies are needed assessing progestin-only contraceptives as they may have a negative effect in the general population. The type of progestin contained within the contraceptive may influence the anabolic response of muscle to loading although this relationship is complex as it may be due to either direct or indirect effects of exogenous hormones on protein synthesis and satellite cell proliferation. The altered hormonal milieu in hormonal contraceptive users has predominately been shown to have no effect on muscle strength and whilst maximal oxygen uptake is sometimes reduced, this does not translate into measures of performance. The majority of previous research has used cross-sectional designs and/or grouped together different types and brands of hormonal contraceptives and little research has been conducted on progestin-only contraceptives in athletes. Future research should use prospective, randomised-controlled designs to assess the effects of all types of hormonal contraceptives on athletic performance in females.(AU)

Resumo Os métodos contraceptivos hormonais são usados por aproximadamente metade das atletas do sexo feminino e podem afetar o desempenho atlético como resultado de sua ação hormonal sistêmica. Nas atletas, o uso de anticoncepcionais parece ter pouco efeito sobre a composição corporal, porém novos estudos são necessários para avaliar os efeitos dos contraceptivos derivados apenas de progestina, pois podem ter um efeito negativo na população em geral. O tipo de progestina contido dentro do contraceptivo pode influenciar a resposta anabólica do músculo, embora esta relação seja complexa em virtude dos efeitos diretos ou indiretos de hormônios exógenos na síntese da proteína e na proliferação das células satélites. A resposta sistêmica hormonal alterada em usuárias de contraceptivos parece não influenciar a força muscular e, embora o consumo máximo de oxigênio às vezes seja reduzida, isso não afeta as medidas de desempenho. A maioria das pesquisas utilizou desenhos transversais e/ou agrupou diferentes tipos e marcas de anticoncepcionais hormonais e poucos estudos têm sido realizada sobre anticoncepcionais com progestina em atletas. Futuros estudos devem usar desenhos experimentais prospectivos, randomizados e controlados para avaliar os efeitos de todos os tipos de contraceptivos hormonais no desempenho atlético em mulheres.(AU)