Previous Use of Combined Oral Contraception in High Complexity Assisted Reproduction Treatments in Protocol with Oral Progestin - Previous use of COC and ART.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of prior use of combined oral contraceptives in assisted reproduction techniques with ovulation blockade by oral progestin. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study with a single-center convenience sample of patients treated between 2018 and 2021. Two groups were compared: with and without a history of combined oral contraceptives (comparator). The clinical variables were age, body mass index, type of infertility and smoking. Regarding treatment, antral follicle count; follicles >14 mm; oocytes in metaphase I and II; number of embryos; days of treatment; total dose of medication, chemical and clinical pregnancy rate and delivery after 1st embryo transfer. Absolute and relative frequencies were used for the qualitative variables; means, medians and t-test for the quantitative ones. Association between qualitative variables used the Chi-square test and, for quantitative variables, the Mann-Whitney test (p<0.05). The statistical program used was Stata 16.0. RESULTS: Among 407 medical records, 351 were included (combined oral contraceptive=243 and comparator=108). The combined oral contraceptive and the comparator groups had, respectively, mean (SD±) age 38.2 (4.5) and 38.2 (4.5) years; chemical pregnancy rates of 30.5% and 29.6% (p=0.281); clinical pregnancy rates of 24.8% and 24.1% (p=0.313) and abortion, 5% and 4.6% (p=0.544). The median time on combined oral contraceptives was 6 years. CONCLUSIONS: Previous use of combined oral contraceptives did not impact reproductive results in relation to the comparator group in patients undergoing assisted reproduction techniques in protocols with oral progestin.

Sexual function, quality of life, anxiety, and depression in women of reproductive age using hormonal, nonhormonal, and no contraceptive methods.

BACKGROUND: Hormonal contraceptive use has been related to adverse effects, including impacts on sexual function and sexual satisfaction, although the difference in the effects on sexual function with the use of hormonal vs nonhormonal contraceptive methods remains controversial. AIM: In this study we sought to compare the prevalence of dyspareunia, sexual function, sexual satisfaction, quality of life, anxiety, and depression between women using hormonal, nonhormonal, or no contraceptive methods and to compare these outcomes between the most frequently used contraceptive methods. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included sexually active women of reproductive age who were stratified into 3 groups: women using hormonal, nonhormonal, or no contraceptive methods. Based on the use of questionnaires administered to the study participants, we compared sexual function in the 3 groups and more specifically among users of oral contraceptives, copper and hormonal intrauterine devices, and barrier methods. OUTCOMES: Participants completed 4 questionnaires to assess sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index), sexual satisfaction (Sexual Quotient-Feminine Version), quality of life (12-item Medical Outcomes Short Form Health Survey), and anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). RESULTS: This study included 315 women classified into 3 groups on the basis of contraceptive use: 161 in the hormonal contraceptives group (median [interquartile range] age, 24 [23-28] years), 97 in the nonhormonal contraceptives group (age 26 [23-30] years), and 57 in the no contraceptive methods group (age 28 [24-35] years). Dyspareunia prevalence showed no difference between the groups. In the quality of life domain, compared with women in the nonhormonal contraceptive group, women in the hormonal contraceptive group were younger and had lower sexual function satisfaction, reduced arousal, and heightened pain (P < .05), as well as higher anxiety and depression levels (P = .03, for both), increased pain (P = .01), and poorer overall health (P = .01). No difference was found between these groups in other quality of life domains. Regarding contraceptive methods, women using copper intrauterine devices had better sexual function, including higher rates of arousal and lower anxiety, than women using oral contraceptives (P < .05). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The results of this study highlight worse sexual function and sexual satisfaction and higher levels of anxiety and depression in women using hormonal contraceptive methods than in women using nonhormonal methods. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: The findings of this study strengthen the evidence of differences in sexual function between women using oral contraceptives and those using copper intrauterine devices. Sexual function was also compared among users of oral contraceptives, copper and hormonal intrauterine devices, and barrier methods. However, less frequently used contraceptive methods, such as hormonal injections and vaginal rings, could not be compared in this sample. CONCLUSION: Women using hormonal contraceptive methods were younger, had lower sexual function and satisfaction, and experienced higher anxiety and depression levels than women using nonhormonal contraceptive methods.

Pharmacological Management and Potentially Inappropriate Prescriptions for Patients with Acne.

Objective: Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease that involves the pilosebaceous follicle. Its pharmacological treatment involves topical and systemic medications, but a heterogeneous group of drugs may exacerbate or induce skin lesions. The aim of this study was to identify the pharmacological management and medications related to the exacerbation of skin lesions in patients diagnosed with acne. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that identified the outpatient medication prescription patterns of patients with acne from a dispensing database of 8.5 million members of the Colombian Health System. Sociodemographic and pharmacological variables and the identification of prescriptions that were potentially inappropriate due to the risk of worsening acne were considered. Results: A total of 21,604 patients with acne were identified. Median age was 20.8 years (interquartile range: 17.3-27.3 years), and 60.7 percent were female. Treatment mainly involved antibiotics (79.9% of patients), especially doxycycline (66.0%), and retinoids (55.7%). A total of 17.2 percent of patients had potentially inappropriate prescriptions, predominantly progestogens with androgenic properties (8.9%). Female patients (odds ratio [OR]: 3.55; 95% confidence interval [CI]:3.24-3.90) and patients with pathologies such as systemic lupus erythematosus (OR: 18.61; 95% CI: 7.23-47.93) and rheumatoid arthritis (OR: 10.80; 95% CI: 5.02-23.23) were more likely to receive inappropriate prescriptions, and the risk increased with each year of life (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.02-1.03). Limitations: Access to medical records was not obtained to verify clinical characteristics of acne. Conclusion: Patients with acne are excessively treated with systemic antibiotics, counter to clinical practice guidelines. Approximately one-fifth of these patients received some potentially inappropriate medication that could exacerbate their skin lesions.

A Cross-Sectional Analysis Investigating Pregnant Women's Renal Function and Its Association with Lead and Cadmium Exposures-The DSAN Birth Cohort Study in Recôncavo Baiano, Brazil.

Kidney dysfunction is increasing worldwide and is exacerbated by exposure to toxic metals. Also, pregnancy poses an overload on kidney function. We investigated how blood lead (PbB) and cadmium (CdB) levels were associated with kidney function in pregnant women from Recôncavo Baiano, Brazil, during their second trimester. In this cross-sectional study, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated from serum creatinine and whole blood metal levels were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry in 136 volunteers. Sociodemographic data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires. The medians (IQR) of PbB, CdB, and eGFR were 0.85 µg/dL (0.45-1.75), 0.55 µg/L (0.08-0.91), and 121.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 (106.0-127.9), respectively. PbB medians were significantly higher in the eGFR < 90 group at 2.00 µg/dL (0.83, 3.10). After age-adjusted logistic regression, pregnant women with elevated PbB levels had decreased eGFR (OR = 1.82; 95%-CI, 1.14-3.14). However, the participants with elevated PbB levels who reported consuming alcohol during pregnancy or had CdB in the highest tertile had higher odds of reduced eGFR (OR = 2.44; 95%-CI, 1.30-5.47) and (OR = 11.22; 95% CI, 2.53-103.51), respectively. These results suggest that low Pb exposure may affect kidney function in pregnant women and calls for further investigation into toxic metal co-exposures on kidney function during pregnancy in at-risk communities.

Combined Oral Contraceptives: Association with Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Calcium and Bone Homeostasis.

Background: Use of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) has been found to increase serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] but effects on calcium and bone homeostasis are unclear. Materials and Methods: Serum 25(OH)D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), alkaline phosphatase (ALK) and estradiol, dietary intake of bone-related nutrients and foods, bone mineral density (BMD), and body fat were compared in adult women (20-35 years; body mass index 21.5 ± 2.3 kg/m2) users (+COC, n = 32) and nonusers (-COC, n = 20) of COC. Biochemical markers were measured by automated assays. BMD at total body (TB), lumbar spine (LS), femoral neck (FN) and trochanter (TR), and body fat, were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Dietary intake was assessed by a food frequency questionnaire. Results: Intake of calcium, dairy foods, and fruits and vegetables, were adequate and did not differ by COC. Mean 25(OH)D was 35% higher in +COC (110.4 ± 27.3 nmol/L, 44.2 ± 1.8 ng/mL) compared with -COC (81.7 ± 22.8 nmol/L, 32.7 ± 2.3 ng/mL; p < 0.001). Mean PTH, ALK, and estradiol were 28%, 12%, and 62% lower, respectively, in +COC compared with -COC (p ≤ 0.05). Mean BMD z-scores (all sites) were adequate and did not differ by COC. There were no correlations between 25(OH)D and dietary, biochemical, and body composition variables. PTH was inversely correlated with TR-BMD z-score in -COC (r = -0.47; p = 0.04), and ALK was inversely correlated with TB-, TR-, and LS-BMD z-scores in -COC (r ≤ -0.43; p ≤ 0.04), but not in +COC. Conclusions: Increased serum 25(OH)D with COC use was paralleled by expected physiologic adjustments in calcium and bone homeostasis, and adequate bone mass status, in nonobese young adult women consuming bone-healthy diets.

Contraceptive switch and abandonment among women using the pill, condoms and injectables in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to assess the covariates of contraceptive switching and abandonment among Brazilian women stratified by oral pills, condoms and injectables. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Women attending primary health care services in three Brazilian mid- to large-sized cities were interviewed face-to-face about their contraceptive practices (n = 2,051). Data were collected using a contraceptive calendar. Analysis included estimates using Kaplan-Meier multiple-decrement life-table probabilities and discrete-time hazards modelling of switching from a method to another or to no method. RESULTS: Among 3,280 segments of contraceptive use, we observed that five-year contraceptive switching rates ranged from 34.9% among injectable users to 56.1% among pill users. Of particular concern were the high discontinuation rates of abandonment, which ranged from 50.9% among injectable users to 77.4% among pill users. Covariates of method switching and abandonment varied by type of method, but age, race/ethnicity, religion and relationship status must be highlighted as key elements of discontinuation. CONCLUSION: Contraceptive method switching and abandoning are frequent outcomes of contraceptive use. Understanding the factors that shape women's decisions to continue or discontinue the use of a contraceptive method can help tailoring comprehensive contraceptive counselling that meet their expectations and reproductive needs when starting using a method.

Contraceptive discontinuation among women in need of contraception may difficult the achievement of their fertility desires, which can lead to unintended pregnancies.

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.

Efeitos do exercício físico sobre o perfil lipídico e inflamatório de mulheres jovens em uso de contraceptivo oral combinado: protocolo de um estudo sequencial cruzado / Effects of physical exercise on the lipid and inflammatory profile of young women using combined oral contraceptives: protocol of a crosssectional study

INTRODUÇÃO: O uso de contraceptivos orais combinados (COC) trata-se de um fator de risco para a doença aterosclerótica por comprometer o perfil lipídico e inflamatório, podendo o exercício físico minimizar essas condições. OBJETIVO: Testar a hipótese de que exercício físico pode modificar o perfil lipídico e inflamatório de mulheres em uso COC. MÉTODOS: Protocolo de um estudo sequencial cruzado com mulheres de 20 e 30 anos, irregularmente ativas, em uso de COC há pelo menos 6 meses. Realizouse uma avaliação físico-clínica (AFC) nas participantes com medidas antropométricas, VO2máx. indireto e análise do perfil lipídico e inflamatório. Na sequência separou-se as participantes em 2 grupos: O grupo intervenção inicial (GII) que iniciou praticando exercícios intervalados de alta intensidade por 2 meses, e o grupo intervenção posterior (GIP), que seguiu irregularmente ativo pelo mesmo período. Em seguida o GII e o GIP alternariam suas condições por mais 2 meses, totalizando 4 meses de acompanhamento e 3 AFC, realizadas no início, após 2 meses e ao final do estudo. As informações colhidas foram divididas em 3 momentos: Momento inicial (MI), momento pós exercício (MPE) e pós inatividade (MPI).

INTRODUCTION: The use of combined oral contraceptives (COC) is a risk factor for atherosclerotic disease because it compromises the lipid and inflammatory profile, and physical exercise can minimize these conditions. OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that high intensity interval physical exercise promotes changes in the lipid and inflammatory profile of women who are irregularly active using COC. METHODS: Protocol of a crosssectional study with women of 20 and 30 years, irregularly active, using COC for at least 6 months. A physicalclinical assessment (AFC) was performed on the participants with anthropometric measurements, VO2max. analysis and analysis of the lipid and inflammatory profile. Afterwards, the participants were divided into 2 groups: the initial intervention group (GII) that started practicing high intensity interval exercises for 2 months, and the posterior intervention group (GIP), which remained irregularly active for the same period. Then the GII and GIP would alternate their conditions for another 2 months, totaling 4 months of follow-up and 3 AFC, performed at the beginning, after 2 months and at the end of the study. The information collected was divided into 3 moments: Initial moment (MI), post-exercise moment (MPE) and post-inactivity (MPI).

Manejo conservador de retención de productos de la concepción con anticonceptivos orales combinados / Conservative Management of Retained Products of Conception with Combined Oral Contraceptives. Case Report

Objetivo: presentar el caso de una paciente con retención de productos de la concepción (RPC) después de aborto médico, tratada con anticonceptivos orales combinados (ACOC), y efectuar revisión de la literatura. Caso Clínico: paciente de 37 años, con sangrado genital escaso y leve dolor pélvico, quien tuvo aborto provocado con misoprostol cuatro días antes, acude sin signos de infección, con endometrio mixto de 18,5 mm. Durante seis semanas de seguimiento persiste sangrado y endometrio mixto engrosado, con disminución lenta de la gonadotrofina corionica humana (GCH); se sospecha RPC, se suministra ciclo de ACOC y al terminarlos expulsa completamente el tejido retenido. Metodología: búsqueda bibliográfica en bases de datos Google Scholar, Science Direct, RIMA, PubMed. Revisión de literatura: la RPC se presenta después de parto o aborto (más frecuente). Criterios diagnósticos: sangrado persistente, hallazgos ecográficos y medición de GCH. Diagnóstico diferencial: enfermedad trofoblastica gestacional y malformaciones arteriovenosas uterinas. Es factible el manejo conservador, con bajas tasas de infección o procedimientos quirúrgicos. Ante la evolución prolongada, presencia de signos de infección o hemorragia importante, se impone la evacuación quirúrgica, tradicionalmente con dilatación y legrado, y más recientemente resección histeroscópica. La bibliografía reciente sugiere el uso de ACOC como manejo médico. En nuestro caso, la paciente tomó un ciclo de ACOC y al terminarlos presentó expulsión de los restos retenidos. Conclusiones: el manejo conservador de la RPC con ACOC surge como una opción en casos seleccionados; son necesarios estudios controlados para definir su utilidad..Au

Objective: to report the case of a patient with retained products of conception (RPC) after a medical abortion, successfully treated with combined oral contraceptives (COCs), and to review the literature. Clinical case: a 37-year-old patient, with little genital bleeding and slight pelvic pain, who had had a misoprostol-induced abortion four days before consulting, she attended without signs of infection, with a thikened 18.5 mm mixed endometrium. After six weeks follow-up genital bleeding and thickened mixed endometrium persist, with a slow decrease in human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), RPC is suspected, and a COC cycle is administered, when finished, she completely expelled the retained tissue. Methodology: Google Scholar, Science Direct, RIMA and PubMed databases were searched. Literature review: RPC occurs after delivery or abortion (more frequent), diagnostic criteria: persistent bleeding, ultrasound findings and HCG measurement; the differential diagnosis includes gestational trophoblastic disease and uterine arteriovenous malformations. Conservative management is feasible, with low rates of infection or surgical procedures, however, in case of prolonged evolution, evident signs of infection or significant bleeding, surgical evacuation is required, traditionally with dilation and curettage, and more recently hysteroscopic resection. Novel bibliography suggests the use of ACOC as medical management. In our case, the patient took a cycle of COC and at the end she expelled the retained remains. Conclusions: conservative management of RPC with COC arises as an option in selected cases, controlled trails are needed to define its usefulness..Au

Descontinuidades contraceptivas no uso do contraceptivo hormonal oral, injetável e do preservativo masculino / Contraceptive discontinuities in the use of oral and injectable hormonal contraceptives, and male condoms / Discontinuidades contraceptivas en el uso del anticonceptivo hormonal oral o inyectable y del preservativo masculino

O objetivo foi estimar as taxas de descontinuidade total no uso do contraceptivo hormonal oral, injetável e do preservativo masculino, bem como verificar as taxas de interrupção por abandono e por troca para método mais eficaz e menos eficaz. Dados de 2.051 mulheres usuárias de unidades básicas de saúde de três capitais brasileiras foram coletados por meio do calendário contraceptivo. Os resultados mostraram que 24,5% das usuárias do contraceptivo hormonal oral, 33,5% das usuárias de contraceptivo hormonal injetável e 39% das usuárias do preservativo masculino haviam descontinuado o uso do método até 12 meses de uso, independentemente da razão. Houve pouca variação nas taxas entre capitais, mas não no método utilizado. A principal razão para descontinuar o uso do método contraceptivo foi por querer engravidar (20,8%). Um total de 20% das mulheres engravidou enquanto usava algum método, e essa proporção alcançou 25,7% entre usuárias do preservativo masculino. Ressalta-se que, após 12 meses de uso, a taxa de abandono por razões relacionadas ao método contraceptivo foi de 11,4% entre usuárias do injetável. A taxa de troca para método mais eficaz foi de 15,9% entre usuárias do preservativo masculino, e a taxa de troca para método menos eficaz foi de 16,3% entre usuárias do contraceptivo hormonal injetável. As taxas de descontinuidade contraceptiva foram altas e variaram conforme o tipo de método contraceptivo utilizado.

The study aimed to estimate the total contraceptive discontinuity rates in the use of oral and injectable hormonal contraceptives, and male condoms and dropout rates due to switches to more effective and less effective methods. Data on 2,051 women, users of primary healthcare services in three Brazilian state capitals, were collected using the contraceptive calendar. The results showed that 24.5% of users of oral hormonal contraceptives, 33.5% of users of injectables, and 39% of users of male condoms had discontinued the respective method after 12 months of use, independently of the reason, and that the rates varied little between the capitals but did depend on the method. The main reason for discontinuing use of the contraceptive method was the desire to become pregnant (20.8%). Conception while using the method was reported by 20% of the women, a proportion that reached 25.7% in users of male condoms. After 12 months with the method, the dropout rate for reasons related to the contraceptive method was 11.4% in users of injectables; 15.9% of users of male condoms switched to a more effective method; and 16.3% of users of injectables switched to a less effective method. Contraceptive discontinuity rates were high and varied according to the contraceptive method.

El objetivo fue estimar las tasas de discontinuidad contraceptiva totales en el uso del contraceptivo hormonal oral o inyectable y del preservativo masculino, así como por abandono, cambio por un método más eficaz o menos eficaz. Se recogieron datos de 2.051 mujeres usuarias de unidades básicas de salud de tres capitales brasileñas mediante el calendario contraceptivo. Los resultados expusieron que un 24,5% de las usuarias del contraceptivo hormonal oral, un 33,5% de las usuarias de inyectables y un 39% de las usuarias del preservativo masculino habían discontinuado el uso del método tras 12 meses de uso, independientemente de la razón, siendo que las tasas poco variaron entre las capitales, pero sí dependiendo del método utilizado. La principal razón para interrumpir el uso del método contraceptivo fue querer quedarse embarazada (20,8%). Quedarse embarazada mientras se usaba el método fue informado por un 20% de las mujeres, proporción que alcanza un 25,7% entre usuarias del preservativo masculino. Se resalta que, tras 12 meses de uso del método, la tasa de abandono por razones relacionadas con el método contraceptivo fue un 11,4% entre usuarias de los inyectables; la tasa de cambio hacia un método más eficaz fue 15,9% entre usuarias del preservativo masculino; y la tasa de cambio por un método menos eficaz fue 16,3% entre usuarias de los inyectables. Las tasas de discontinuidad contraceptiva fueron altas y variaron según el tipo de método contraceptivo utilizado.

Bleeding Pattern and Management of Unexpected Bleeding/Spotting with an Extended Regimen of a Combination of Ethinylestradiol 20 mcg and Drospirenone 3 mg.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the bleeding pattern in women using ethinylestradiol 20 mcg/drospirenone 3 mg (EE 20 mcg/DRSP 3 mg) in a 24/4-day cyclic regimen with an extended regimen. Unexpected bleeding/spotting in the extended regimen group was managed by allowing a 4-day hormone-free interval (HFI). METHODS: This was a randomized, prospective, open-label, multicenter study. Participants (N = 348) were randomized to receive EE 20 mcg/DRSP 3 mg in either an extended regimen (EE/DRSPes group) or a 24/4-day cyclic regimen (EE/DRSP24/4 group) and followed for 168 days. In the EE/DRSPes group, a 4-day HFI was allowed whenever unexpected bleeding/spotting persisted for ≥7 consecutive days. The participants assessed their bleeding daily as "no bleeding," "spotting," or "light," "moderate," or "heavy" bleeding according to a predefined scale. RESULTS: EE/DRSPes group experienced fewer days of bleeding than those using a 24/4 cyclic regimen (P < 0.001). After 168 days, 57.5% of women in the EE/DRSPes group achieved complete amenorrhea (i.e., neither bleeding nor spotting) and 73.9% achieved "no bleeding" (i.e., no bleeding with or without spotting) during the final 28-day interval of the study period. Women in the extended group who instituted the 4-day HFI experienced a 94.1% rate of successful management of unexpected bleeding/spotting. CONCLUSION: The use of EE 20 mcg/DRSP 3 mg in an extended regimen resulted in high rates of amenorrhea and "no bleeding". Unexpected bleeding/spotting in the EE/DRSPes group could be managed effectively with a 4-day HFI. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN57661673): http://www.controlled-trials.com/isrctn/pf/57661673.

Beneficial and Deleterious Effects of Female Sex Hormones, Oral Contraceptives, and Phytoestrogens by Immunomodulation on the Liver.

The liver is considered the laboratory of the human body because of its many metabolic processes. It accomplishes diverse activities as a mixed gland and is in continuous cross-talk with the endocrine system. Not only do hormones from the gastrointestinal tract that participate in digestion regulate the liver functions, but the sex hormones also exert a strong influence on this sexually dimorphic organ, via their receptors expressed in liver, in both health and disease. Besides, the liver modifies the actions of sex hormones through their metabolism and transport proteins. Given the anatomical position and physiological importance of liver, this organ is evidenced as an immune vigilante that mediates the systemic immune response, and, in turn, the immune system regulates the hepatic functions. Such feedback is performed by cytokines. Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines are strongly involved in hepatic homeostasis and in pathological states; indeed, female sex hormones, oral contraceptives, and phytoestrogens have immunomodulatory effects in the liver and the whole organism. To analyze the complex and interesting beneficial or deleterious effects of these drugs by their immunomodulatory actions in the liver can provide the basis for either their pharmacological use in therapeutic treatments or to avoid their intake in some diseases.

One-year adolescent bone mineral density and bone formation marker changes through the use or lack of use of combined hormonal contraceptives / Alterações na densidade mineral óssea e nos marcadores de formação óssea em adolescentes usuárias ou não de contraceptivos hormonais orais combinados por período de um ano

Abstract Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two low-dose combined oral contraceptives on bone metabolism in adolescents for one year. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study. The adolescents were divided into three groups: oral contraceptives 1 (n = 42) (20 µg EE/150 µg desogestrel), oral contraceptives 2 (n = 66) (30 µg EE/3 mg drospirenone), and a control group (n = 70). Adolescents underwent anthropometric assessment and densitometry (dual-energy X-ray). Bone age and bone formation markers (osteocalcin and bone alkaline phosphatase) were evaluated. The oral contraceptives users were evaluated again after 12 months. Linear regression analysis was used to indirectly study the effect of each additional year of chronological age on anthropometric and densitometric variables as well as on bone markers in the control group. Results: At study entry, no significant differences were observed between the oral contraceptives 1, oral contraceptives 2, and controls in the analyzed variables. Linear regression analysis showed an increase in bone mineral density and bone mineral content for each additional year. There was a significant reduction in bone alkaline phosphatase levels; no significant difference was observed for osteocalcin in control individuals. Comparison of dual-energy X-ray variables at baseline and after one year showed no significant differences in the oral contraceptives 1 or oral contraceptives 2 groups. A significant reduction in bone alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin levels was observed in both the oral contraceptives 1 and oral contraceptives 2 groups. Conclusion: Adolescent women gain peak bone mass during this phase of life. Two low-dose combined oral hormonal contraceptives were associated with lower bone gain and lower bone formation markers than in untreated controls.

Resumo: Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos de dois contraceptivos orais combinados de baixa dosagem por um ano sobre o metabolismo ósseo em adolescentes. Métodos: Este foi um estudo quase experimental. As adolescentes foram divididas em três grupos: contraceptivos orais 1 (n = 42) (20 µg de EE/150 µg de desogestrel), contraceptivos orais 2 (n = 66) (30 µg EE/3 mg de drospirenona) e grupo controle (n = 70). As adolescentes foram submetidas à avaliação antropométrica e densitometria (raio-X de dupla energia). Foram avaliados a idade óssea e os marcadores de formação óssea (osteocalcina e fosfatase alcalina óssea). As usuárias de contraceptivos orais foram novamente avaliadas após 12 meses. A análise de regressão linear foi utilizada para estudar, indiretamente, o efeito de cada ano adicional da idade cronológica sobre as variáveis antropométricas e densitométricas e sobre os marcadores ósseos no grupo de controle. Resultados: No início do estudo, não foram observadas diferenças significativas nas variáveis analisadas entre as usuárias de contraceptivos orais 1, contraceptivos orais 2 e o grupo controle. A análise de regressão linear mostrou um aumento na densidade mineral óssea e no conteúdo mineral ósseo para cada ano adicional. Houve uma redução significativa nos níveis de fosfatase alcalina óssea e não foi observada diferença significativa para osteocalcina nos indivíduos controles. A comparação das variáveis do raio-X de dupla energia no início e após um ano não mostrou diferença significativa no grupo de contraceptivos orais 1 ou contraceptivos orais 2. Foi observada uma redução significativa nos níveis de fosfatase alcalina óssea e osteocalcina nos dois grupos contraceptivos orais 1 e contraceptivos orais 2. Conclusão: As adolescentes atingiram o pico de massa óssea durante essa fase da vida. Duas formulações de contraceptivos hormonais orais de baixa dosagem, após um ano de uso, se associaram a menor incremento na densidade mineral óssea e menor concentração de marcadores de formação óssea quando confrontados com resultados de adolescentes não usuárias de contraceptivos.

Millennials and contraception: why do they forget? An international survey exploring the impact of lifestyles and stress levels on adherence to a daily contraceptive regimen.

BACKGROUND: Rates of unintended pregnancies are particularly high in young women, a finding that may be associated with their tendency not to use contraceptives correctly and/or consistently. For millennial women, busy lifestyles and associated stress may impact on daily activities including taking an oral contraceptive pill. METHODS: Contraceptive pill users aged 21-29 years ('millennial' women; N = 4500) from nine countries in Europe and North and South America completed an online questionnaire on their daily habits and activities, disruptions to their routine and associated stress levels. RESULTS: Thirty-nine percent of surveyed participants had forgotten to take their contraceptive pill at least once in the past month; 39% also admitted not taking it at the same time each day. On average, participants had experienced two major disruptions to their daily lives in the past year, with three quarters (74%) believing these disruptions increased their stress levels. Of those who had missed at least one pill in the past year, 40% attributed it to a busy schedule and 21% to stress, among other reasons. Over half of respondents (55%) reported they were more likely to forget their pill when preoccupied. CONCLUSIONS: Times of stress may make it more likely for millennial women to forget to take their pill. Health care providers should be aware of typical contraceptive adherence rates among young women and ensure that contraceptive counselling sessions include discussion of lifestyle issues and potential barriers to adherence. Every woman should be counselled on all available methods, so that she can make an informed choice on what best suits her.

Tecnologia educacional sobre contracepção oral: construção compartilhada com enfermeiros da assistência reprodutiva / Educational technology on oral contraception: construction shared with nurses reproductive assistance / La tecnología educativa en la anticoncepción oral: la construcción compartida con las enfermeras de asistencia reproductiva

Objetivo: Describir las prácticas de conocimiento y de enfermería en el contexto de la anticoncepción oral y construir de manera compartida, una tecnología educacional. Metodología: El estudio se realizó en 09 unidades de la Estrategia Salud de la Familia, que pertenece al municipio de Ananindeua, en la región metropolitana de Belém - Pará, con los participantes 21 enfermeras. La recolección de datos se llevó a cabo de agosto a noviembre 2015, a través de entrevistas individuales con semi-estructurada y análisis utilizó la técnica de análisis de contenido. Resultados: Se estableció contacto con las enfermeras que tienen un amplio conocimiento sobre la anticoncepción oral. Y sus prácticas, aunque relevante para lo que se recomienda para esta clientela, se ven obstaculizados por las condiciones de trabajo en sus unidades. Conclusión: Las enfermeras contribuyeron al contenido y la forma de la tecnología educativa, ya que consideraba pertinente para su uso como una herramienta importante para la educación sanitaria

Objetivo: Descrever conhecimentos e práticas de enfermeiros no contexto da contracepção oral e construir, de forma compartilhada, uma tecnologia educacional. Método: A pesquisa foi desenvolvida em nove Unidades da Estratégia Saúde da Família, pertencentes ao município de Ananindeua, localizado na Região Metropolitana de Belém/Pará, tendo como participantes 21 enfermeiros. A coleta de dados ocorreu no período de agosto a novembro de 2015, por meio de entrevista individual com roteiro semiestruturado, e, para análise, utilizou-se a técnica de análise de conteúdo. Resultados: Contatou-se que os enfermeiros têm amplo conhecimento com relação à contracepção oral. E suas práticas, embora pertinentes ao que está preconizado para essa clientela, encontram-se dificultadas pelas condições de trabalho em suas Unidades. Conclusão: Os enfermeiros contribuíram no conteúdo e forma da tecnologia educacional, pois consideraram pertinente a sua utilização como importante ferramenta para a educação em saúde

Objective: To describe nurses' knowledge and practices in the context of oral contraception and to construct, in a collaborative way, an educational technology. Methodology: The research was developed in 09 Units of the Family Health Strategy, belonging to the municipality of Ananindeua, located in the Metropolitan Region of Belém - Pará, with 21 nurses as participants. The data collection took place from August to November 2015 through individual interview with a semi-structured script and for the analysis the content analysis technique was used. Results: It was found that nurses have extensive knowledge regarding oral contraception. And its practices, although pertinent to what is recommended for this clientele, are hampered by the working conditions in its Units. Conclusion: Nurses contributed to the content and form of the educational technology, considering their relevance as an important tool for health education

One-year adolescent bone mineral density and bone formation marker changes through the use or lack of use of combined hormonal contraceptives.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two low-dose combined oral contraceptives on bone metabolism in adolescents for one year. METHODS: This was a quasi-experimental study. The adolescents were divided into three groups: oral contraceptives 1 (n=42) (20µg EE/150µg desogestrel), oral contraceptives 2 (n=66) (30µg EE/3mg drospirenone), and a control group (n=70). Adolescents underwent anthropometric assessment and densitometry (dual-energy X-ray). Bone age and bone formation markers (osteocalcin and bone alkaline phosphatase) were evaluated. The oral contraceptives users were evaluated again after 12 months. Linear regression analysis was used to indirectly study the effect of each additional year of chronological age on anthropometric and densitometric variables as well as on bone markers in the control group. RESULTS: At study entry, no significant differences were observed between the oral contraceptives 1, oral contraceptives 2, and controls in the analyzed variables. Linear regression analysis showed an increase in bone mineral density and bone mineral content for each additional year. There was a significant reduction in bone alkaline phosphatase levels; no significant difference was observed for osteocalcin in control individuals. Comparison of dual-energy X-ray variables at baseline and after one year showed no significant differences in the oral contraceptives 1 or oral contraceptives 2 groups. A significant reduction in bone alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin levels was observed in both the oral contraceptives 1 and oral contraceptives 2 groups. CONCLUSION: Adolescent women gain peak bone mass during this phase of life. Two low-dose combined oral hormonal contraceptives were associated with lower bone gain and lower bone formation markers than in untreated controls.

Métodos Contraceptivos e Prevalência de Mulheres Adultas e Jovens com risco de Trombose, no Campus Centro Universitário do Distrito Federal-UDF / Contraceptive Methods and Prevalence of Adult and Young Women at Risk of Thrombosis in the Campos Centro Universitário do Distrito Federal-UDF

A Pílula anticoncepcional é um método muito confiável. Além de impedir a gravidez, os anticoncepcionais vêm apresentando benefícios em outras situações, da dismenorreia (cólica menstrual), da menorragia (excesso de menstruação) e da tensão pré-menstrual. Ultimamente ele vem causando muitos desafios a serem enfrentados, muitos relatos de mulheres que concluíram que adquiriu trombose pelo uso do anticoncepcional. Com estudos de casos realizados em capitais Brasileiras, feito com mulheres de 15 a 39 anos, mostram o quanto os problemas relacionados à trombose profunda em seios venosos, doenças cardiovasculares e hipertensão esta crescendo não apenas com uso dos anticoncepcionais, mas a maneira que ele é tomado, as mulheres relataram que tomam para evitar gravidez, com isso leva ao aumento dos riscos que devido ao seu uso prologando, a influência dos fatores genéticos que estão influenciando drasticamente para o aumento de casos. Conhecimentos epidemiológicos indicam que o uso desses medicamentos preestabelece maior risco de desenvolvimento de (TVP) trombose venosa profunda. Determina-se que o uso de contraceptivos orais aumenta a perspectiva de ocorrer TVP, pois os hormônios composto nesses medicamentos atuam no sistema cardiovascular

The contraceptive pill is a very reliable method. In addition to preventing pregnancy, contraceptives have shown benefits in other situations, such as dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps), menorrhagia (excessive menstruation), and premenstrual tension. Lately it has been causing many challenges to face, many reports from women who have concluded that they have acquired thrombosis through the use of contraception. With case studies conducted in Brazilian capitals, performed with women aged 15 to 39, show how problems related to deep thrombosis in venous sinuses, cardiovascular diseases and hypertension are growing not only with contraceptive use, but the way it is taken, women reported taking it to avoid pregnancy, with this leads to increased risks that due to their prolonged use, the influence of genetic factors that are drastically influencing the increase in cases. Epidemiological knowledge indicates that the use of these drugs pre-establishes a higher risk of developing deep venous thrombosis (DVT). It is determined that the use of oral contraceptives increases the prospect of DVT, since the hormones composed in these drugs act in the cardiovascular system.