RESUMO
PIP: This report summarizes a meeting of the IPPF International Medical Advisory Panel (IMAP) held in November, 1986, at which information on steroidal oral contraception (OC), Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), and female sterility were discussed. Regarding the multiphasic OC now in use, the benefits to health and well-being outweigh the possible side-effects and infrequent complications. Use is associated with a lower incidence of pelvic inflammatory disease, 96-98% effective prevention of pregnancy, a protective effect against ovarian and endometrial cancer, and regulation of erratic menstrual cycles. Minor side effects include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, fluid retention, and inter-menstrual spotting. Adverse effects are circulatory system disease, myocardial infarction, venous thromboembolism, elevated blood pressure, and liver disease. Data on possible carcinogenicity have been conflicting. For women over age 40 OCs should be prescribed with caution. IMAP also drew up recommendations to assist FPAs to play a more active role in controlling the spread of AIDS. An effective program of Information and Education is of primary importance, targeting family planning workers and clients, teachers, parents, and employers. Wide promotion of condom use is a priority. Studies in Africa have revealed a major epidemic of AIDS, with the major mode of transmission heterosexual. The only immediate practical step in prevention of spread is by changes in sexual behavior. The last topic discussed is that of sterility in African women. The naturally occurring level of infertility expected in all populations of women is 3%; high levels in Africa vary by region from 3-32%. These levels of sterility are acquired through infection with Neisseria gonorrheae and Chlamydia trachomatis. Silent infection of women with Chlamydia make treatment especially difficult.^ieng