Gene expression associated with unfavorable vaginal bleeding in women using the etonogestrel subdermal contraceptive implant: a prospective study.

To evaluate gene expression associated with unfavorable vaginal bleeding in users of the Etonogestrel (ENG) contraceptive implant. Prospective study involving 100 women who intended to use the ENG implant. Exclusion criteria included abnormal uterine bleeding, inability to attend a 1-year follow-up, and implant removal for reasons unrelated to vaginal bleeding or loss of follow-up. We obtained endometrial biopsies before implant placement and assessed the expression of 20 selected genes. Users maintained a uterine bleeding diary for 12 months post-implant placement. For statistical analysis, we categorized women into those with or without favorable vaginal bleeding at 3 and 12 months. Women with lower CXCL1 expression had a 6.8-fold increased risk of unfavorable vaginal bleeding at 3 months (OR 6.8, 95% CI 2.21-20.79, p < 0.001), while those with higher BCL6 and BMP6 expression had 6- and 5.1-fold increased risks, respectively. By the 12-month follow-up, women with lower CXCL1 expression had a 5.37-fold increased risk of unfavorable vaginal bleeding (OR 5.37, 95% CI 1.63-17.73, p = 0.006). Women with CXCL1 expression < 0.0675, BCL6 > 0.65, and BMP6 > 3.4 had a higher likelihood of experiencing unfavorable vaginal bleeding at 3 months, and CXCL1 < 0.158 at 12 months. Users of ENG contraceptive implants with elevated BCL6 and BMP6 expression exhibited a higher risk of breakthrough bleeding at the 3-month follow-up. Conversely, reduced CXCL1 expression was associated with an elevated risk of bleeding at both the 3 and 12-month follow-ups.

Gene expression associated with vaginal bleeding in women using the 52-mg levonorgestrel hormonal intrauterine device: A prospective study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate gene expression associated with vaginal bleeding in the 52-mg hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) users. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective study involving 100 women seeking to use the 52-mg hormonal IUD for contraception. We excluded women with a history or current condition of abnormal uterine bleeding and who were unable to attend a 1-year follow up. Women who expelled the device, removed it for reasons unrelated to vaginal bleeding, or were lost to follow up were discontinued. We collected endometrial biopsies immediately before IUD placement and assessed 20 selected genes using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Users maintained a uterine bleeding diary for 12 months following IUD insertion. For statistical analysis, participants were categorized into groups with or without vaginal bleeding at 3 and 12 months. RESULTS: Women with elevated CXCL9 expression had an 8.15-fold higher likelihood of experiencing vaginal bleeding at 3 months (odds ratio [OR] 8.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.24-29.61, P = 0.001). At 12 months of follow up, women with increased TIMP1 expression had a 2.74-fold higher chance of experiencing vaginal bleeding (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.08-6.95, P = 0.033). CXCL9 ≥ 1.5 and IL17A ≥ 0.68 were associated with a higher probability of vaginal bleeding at 3 months, while TIMP1 levels ≥0.943 were linked to an increased risk of bleeding at 12 months. CONCLUSION: Users of the 52-mg hormonal IUD with elevated relative CXCL9 expression face an increased risk of vaginal bleeding at 3-month follow up, whereas those with heightened TIMP1 expression are more likely to experience vaginal bleeding at 12 months.

Fortalecimiento de la investigación local para abordar la salud y los derechos sexuales y reproductivos de las personas migrantes de Venezuela y América Central / Strengthening locally led research to respond to the sexual and reproductive health and rights of migrants from Venezuela and Central America

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Strengthening locally led research to respond to the sexual and reproductive health and rights of migrants from Venezuela and Central America

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Return to ovulation after Sayana Press is injected every 4 months for one year: Empirical and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling results.

Objective: To characterize return to ovulation after injecting Sayana Press (104 mg/0.65 mL medroxyprogesterone acetate [MPA] in the Uniject device) every 4 months for 1 year of treatment. Study design: We followed a subset of women for return to ovulation in a trial that demonstrated Sayana Press remains highly effective when the subcutaneous reinjection interval is extended from 3 to 4 months. We measured serum progesterone in weeks 38 to 42 and 46 to 50 after a final (third) injection and used a concentration ≥4.7 ng/mL as a surrogate for ovulation. We also performed pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling to predict differences in MPA accumulation and return to ovulation had - contrary to fact - injections been given every 3 months. Results: Ten of 19 women (53%; 95% confidence interval: 29-76) ovulated within 50 weeks of their last injection. We predicted that typical 12-month trough MPA concentrations are 34% lower (0.46 vs 0.69 ng/mL) and the median time from last dose to ovulation is 1.1 months shorter (13.1 vs 14.2 months) when injections are given every four months for 1 year. Conclusion: Extending the Sayana Press reinjection interval from 3 to 4 months leads to less drug accumulation, without a noticeable loss in efficacy. Although the Sayana Press patient leaflet specifies that over 80% of women desiring pregnancy will conceive within a year of stopping the method (independent of treatment duration), our empirical and modeling results indicate women should anticipate waiting a year or more for fertility to return after repeat dosing, with a somewhat shorter delay were the reinjection interval extended to four months. Implications: Providers should counsel women regarding the distinct possibility that return to fertility will take a year or longer following repeat use of Sayana Press. Extending the dosing interval from 3 to 4 months would result in approximately a 1-month shorter delay, without any appreciable reduction in contraceptive efficacy.

Awareness of the non-contraceptive benefits of reversible contraceptive methods in a cohort of Brazilian women: an exploratory study.

PURPOSE: We assess the awareness of Brazilian women about non-contraceptive benefits of contraceptives and compare non-health with health care providers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a survey in Brazil using a questionnaire administered via Google Forms asking women to respond about the awareness of non-contraceptive benefits of combined oral contraceptives (COCs), depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), 52 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS), etonogestrel (ENG)-implant, copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD), and male condom. RESULTS: We received 2,068 completed questionnaires, 720 women (34.8%) aged ≤ 29 years and 236 (11.4%) were physicians or nurses. Only one third of the respondents were aware that COC use is associated with decreased risks of ovarian and endometrial cancers; 296 (16.1%) about that the use of DMPA is associated with a decreased risk of endometrial cancer, and 253 (13.8%) were aware about that the users of the Cu-IUD present lower risk of cervical cancer. We identified significant differences between non-health care providers when compared to physicians or nurses. CONCLUSIONS: We found low awareness regarding the associated lower risk of ovarian, endometrial and cervical cancer associated with the use of some contraceptives, evidencing the need to provide more information about the non-contraceptive benefits during training for health care providers.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Related to the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic among Women Seeking Contraceptive Methods / Conhecimento, atitude e práticas relacionadas à pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 entre mulheres que buscam métodos anticoncepcionais

Abstract Objective To determine knowledge, attitude, and preventive (KAP) practices towards the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic among women in reproductive age seeking to use copper or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUD/LNG-IUS). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study in which we applied a questionnaire on 400 women about KAP practices on COVID-19 at the University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil, from May to August 2020. Results The mean (±SD) age of the women was 30.8±7.9 years, and 72.8% of them reported being pregnant at least once. Most women (95%) had heard or read about COVID-19, and their main sources of information were television (91%) and government websites (53%). However, 53% of the women had doubts about the veracity of the information accessed. Conclusion Women without a partner and with>12 years of schooling had more information about COVID-19 and on its impact on new pregnancy, and those from high socioeconomic status had a higher chance of maintaining physical distance. Safety, effectiveness, comfort, and absence of hormone in the contraceptive method (in the case of TCu380A IUD) were the main reasons for the participants to seek the service during the pandemic, and the possibility to stop menstrual bleeding was the main reason to choose the LNG-IUS.

Resumo Objetivo Determinar o conhecimento, atitude e práticas preventivas (CAP) em relação à pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) entre mulheres em idade reprodutiva que buscam usar dispositivo intrauterino com cobre (DIU TCu 380) ou sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG). Métodos Foi realizado um estudo transversal e um questionário foi aplicado a 400 mulheres para conhecer o CAP sobre o COVID-19 na Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brasil, no período de maio a agosto de 2020. Resultados A média (±DP) de idade das mulheres foi de 30,8±7,9 anos, e 72,8% delas relataram ter engravidado pelo menos uma vez. A maioria das mulheres (95%) tinha ouvido ou lido sobre a a Covid-19, e suas principais fontes de informação foram a televisão (91%) e sites do governo (53%). Porém, 53% das mulheres tinham dúvidas a respeito da veracidade das informações acessadas. Conclusão Mulheres sem companheiro e com mais de 12 anos de escolaridade tiveram mais informações sobre a COVID-19 e sobre o seu impacto em uma nova gravidez, e aquelas de nível socioeconômico alto tiveram maior chance de manter distância física. Segurança, eficácia, conforto e ausência de hormônio no método anticoncepcional (no caso do DIU TCu380A) foram os principais motivos para as participantes procurarem o serviço durante a pandemia, e a possibilidade de controlar o sangramento menstrual abundante foi o principal motivo para a escolha do SIU-LNG.

Effect of ulipristal acetate on gene expression profile in endometrial cells in culture and in vivo upon post-ovulatory administration in fertile women.

PURPOSE: To analyse the effect of ulipristal acetate (UPA) as emergency contraception (EC) on the gene expression of human endometrial cell line (HEC-1A) and endometrium from fertile women treated with UPA after ovulation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: HEC-1A cells were treated with UPA, and endometrial tissue from four healthy women was collected in cycles before, during and 2 months after post-ovulation pill intake. Ovulation and luteal phase were monitored, and endometrial biopsies were obtained at day LH + 7 in each cycle. In all cases, we analysed the expression profile of 192 genes associated to endometrial receptivity. RESULTS: We observed a significant change in total transcriptomic activity of UPA-treated HEC-1A cells compared to controls. In vivo, we also observed a trend to down-regulation of genes in the UPA-treated cycle that was partially restored in the post-treatment cycle. Altogether, our results supported a partially reversible effect of UPA in gene expression associated with uterine receptivity. CONCLUSIONS: When UPA was administered after ovulation, it seems to induce a down-regulation of the main genes involved in conditioning the endometrium for implantation. This effect is partially restored two months after pill intake. The action of UPA on the endometrium for users of EC should be further investigated.

Potential of LARC to recover loss in satisfied demand for modern contraception after the COVID-19 pandemic: a case scenario analysis of Brazil and Mexico / Potencial de los anticonceptivos de acción prolongada para recuperar las pérdidas en la demanda satisfecha de anticonceptivos modernos después de la pandemia de COVID-19: análisis de escenarios en Brasil y México / Potencial dos métodos contraceptivos reversíveis de longa duração para recuperar a perda de demanda por planejamento familiar atendida por métodos contraceptivos modernos após a pandemia de COVID-19: análise de cenários do Brasil e do México

ABSTRACT Objectives. To estimate inequalities in demand for family planning satisfied with modern methods among women in Latin America and the Caribbean, with an emphasis on Brazil and Mexico, and to calculate the scenario for recovery of modern contraceptive coverage by expanding access to long-acting contraceptives (LARC) after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. National health surveys from 2006 to 2018 were used to estimate the demand for family planning satisfied with modern methods and how it was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The scenario included three variables: coverage, health outcomes, and costs. Considering coverage, United Nations Population Fund data were used to estimate the impact of COVID-19 on access to contraception in Latin America and the Caribbean. Health outcomes were assessed with the Impact 2 tool. Direct investment was used to evaluate cost-effectiveness. Results. Substantial inequalities were found in the use of modern contraceptive methods before the pandemic. We showed the potential cost-effectiveness of avoiding maternal deaths by introducing LARCs. Conclusions. In the scenario predicted for Brazil and Mexico, the costs of modern family planning and averted disability-adjusted life years are modest. Governments in Latin America and the Caribbean should consider promoting LARCs as a highly efficient and cost-effective intervention.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Estimar las desigualdades en la demanda de planificación familiar satisfecha con métodos anticonceptivos modernos entre las mujeres de América Latina y el Caribe, especialmente en Brasil y México, y analizar el escenario de recuperación de la cobertura de los anticonceptivos modernos mediante la ampliación del acceso a los anticonceptivos de acción prolongada tras la pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos. Se emplearon encuestas nacionales de salud desde el año 2006 hasta el año 2018 para estimar la demanda de planificación familiar satisfecha con métodos modernos y el impacto de la pandemia de COVID-19. El escenario comprendía tres variables: cobertura, resultados en materia de salud y costos. En lo respectivo a la cobertura, se emplearon datos del Fondo de Población de las Naciones Unidas para evaluar la repercusión de la COVID-19 en el acceso a los anticonceptivos en América Latina y el Caribe. Los resultados en materia de salud se examinaron con la herramienta Impact 2. Se empleó la inversión directa para evaluar la costo-efectividad. Resultados. Se encontraron desigualdades sustanciales en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos modernos antes de la pandemia. Se demostró la posible costo-efectividad de evitar muertes maternas mediante la introducción de anticonceptivos de acción prolongada. Conclusiones. De acuerdo con el escenario previsto para Brasil y México, los costos de la planificación familiar moderna y los años de vida ajustados en función de la discapacidad evitados son moderados. Los gobiernos de América Latina y el Caribe deberían considerar la posibilidad de promover los anticonceptivos de acción prolongada como intervención sumamente eficiente y costo-efectiva.

RESUMO Objetivos. Estimar as desigualdades na demanda por planejamento familiar atendida por métodos contraceptivos modernos em mulheres da América Latina e do Caribe, com ênfase no Brasil e no México, e calcular o cenário de recuperação da cobertura por métodos contraceptivos modernos por meio da ampliação do acesso a métodos contraceptivos reversíveis de longa duração (LARC) após a pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos. Foram usadas pesquisas nacionais de saúde de 2006 a 2018 para estimar a demanda por planejamento familiar atendida por métodos contraceptivos modernos e como ela foi afetada pela pandemia de COVID-19. O cenário incluiu três variáveis: cobertura, desfechos de saúde e custos. Para cobertura, os dados do Fundo de População das Nações Unidas foram usados para estimar o impacto da COVID-19 no acesso à contracepção na América Latina e no Caribe. Desfechos de saúde foram avaliados com a ferramenta Impact 2. O investimento direto foi usado para avaliar a relação custo-benefício. Resultados. Foram constatadas desigualdades importantes no uso de métodos contraceptivos modernos antes da pandemia. Demonstramos a potencial relação custo-benefício de evitar mortes maternas mediante a introdução de LARC. Conclusões. No cenário previsto para o Brasil e o México, os custos do planejamento familiar moderno e dos anos de vida ajustados por incapacidade por ele evitados são modestos. Os governos da América Latina e do Caribe devem considerar a promoção dos LARC como uma intervenção altamente eficiente e custo-efetiva.

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system and breast cancer risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Epidemiological studies have shown that some hormonal contraceptive methods are associated with increased breast cancer risk, especially if used over long periods. Our objective was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature on the risk of breast cancer development in women using the 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a thorough review of peer-reviewed publications from 10 January 1999, through 31 July 2019, using combinations of search terms for breast cancer risk and LNG-IUS in the Medline, EMBASE, LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature), and Scielo databases. This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017059076). Studies reporting breast cancer risk estimates among healthy users of LNG-IUS were included according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis) criteria. Two authors performed data extraction, and a third author resolved disagreements. The quality of evidence was evaluated using the Downs and Black instrument. A funnel plot was generated, and a linear regression test of funnel plot asymmetry was used to assess publication bias. Finally, we performed a random-effects model (owing to high study heterogeneity) meta-analysis of seven suitable studies, stratified by the age distribution of patients (<50 years, ≥50 years, and mixed). RESULTS: We identified 96 studies and manually cross-referenced and excluded duplicate articles. Seventy articles were excluded on the basis of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in the assessment of 26 full-text articles. Eight articles were considered adequate for inclusion in this systematic review, and seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. Three publications were case-control studies and five were cohort studies. According to the Downs and Black instrument, 5 studies were rated as "good" and 3 studies were deemed "fair". Our meta-analysis results indicated increased breast cancer risk in LNG-IUS users: for all women, odds ratio (OR) = 1.16 (95% CI 1.06-1.28, I2  = 78%, P < .01); for women aged <50 years, OR = 1.12 (95% CI 1.02-1.22, I2  = 66%, P = .02); and for women aged ≥50 years, OR = 1.52 (95% CI 1.34-1.72, I2  = 0%, P = .84). CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence suggests that LNG-IUS users have an increased breast cancer risk regardless of age and indication. The effect of LNG-IUS on breast cancer risk seems to be larger in older users. However, our systematic review detected methodological issues across the available studies, and confounding factors may be responsible for at least a fraction of the risk effects associated with LNG-IUS use. Nevertheless, users of LNG-IUS should be aware of these trends. We believe that caution is needed, and risks should be balanced against proven health benefits (eg effective treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding and avoidance of surgical interventions), when prescribing LNG-IUS for long periods of use, especially in women with other known breast cancer risk factors such as old age, obesity, and familial predisposition.

Sexual function and quality of life in a cohort of brazilian users of two kind of intrauterine contraceptives / Função sexual e qualidade de vida em uma amostra de brasileiras usuárias de dois tipos de contraceptivos intrauterinos

Abstract Objective To compare sexual function and quality of life (QOL) among intrauterine contraceptive (copper-intrauterine device [Cu-IUD] or the 52-mg 20 μg/day levonorgestrel- releasing intrauterine system [LNG-IUS]) users. Methods This was part of a cross-sectional study. Women aged between 18 and 49 years old, in a heterosexual relationship, reporting sexual intercourse in the previous 4 weeks, using Cu-IUD (Group 1) or LNG-IUS (Group 2) responded to a questionnaire with sociodemographic information, to the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), to the World Health Organization QOL Questionnaire Abbreviated Version (WHOQOL-BREF), and to a questionnaire about the contraceptive method used. The Student t-test, the Pearson χ2 test or the Fisher exact test, and the Mann-Whitney test were used for the analysis. For the adjusted comparison, we have used the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). A multiple regression analyzing factors related to FSFI 26.55 was done. Significance was established at p < 0.05. Results A total of 347 women in Group 1 (mean age of 32.3 ± 7.5 years old) and of 298 in Group 2 (mean age of 32.7 ± 6.4 years old) completed the questionnaires.Most women had ≥ 8 years of schooling, were in amonogamous relationship, and had had ≤ 2 pregnancies. A total of 122 Cu-IUD and of 87 LNG-IUS users scored ≤ 26.55 on the FSFI. Significant lower scores in physical, environmental, and overall QOL domains in the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire were found in Group 1. More women using the Cu- IUD were not satisfied with the method. Conclusion We did not find significant differences in sexual function; there was a lower score in some domains of QOL among women who used the Cu-IUD. It was not possible to ensure that those differences were related to the contraceptive method.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar a função sexual e a qualidade de vida (QV) entre usuárias de contraceptivos intrauterinos (dispositivo intrauterino com cobre [DIU-cobre] ou sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel [SIU-LNG 52 mg 20 μg/dia]. Métodos O presente estudo foi parte de um estudo de corte transversal. Mulheres com idades entre 18 e 49 anos, em relacionamento heterossexual, relatando relação sexual nas 4 semanas anteriores, utilizando DIU-cobre (Grupo 1) ou SIU-LNG (Grupo 2) responderam ao questionário com informações sociodemográficas, ao Índice de Função Sexual Feminino (IFSF), ao Questionário de QV da Organização Mundial de Saúde, versão abreviada (WHOQOL-BREF, na sigla eminglês), e a umquestionário sobre ométodo contraceptivo utilizado criado para o presente estudo. Os testes t de Student, o teste χ2 de Pearson, o teste exato de Fisher e o teste de Mann-Whitney foram utilizados. A análise de covariância (ANCOVA) foi utilizada para a comparação ajustada. Foi realizada a análise de regressão logística multivariada analisando fatores associados ao IFSF ≤ 26.55. O nível de significância foi p < 0.05. Resultados Um total de 347 mulheres no Grupo 1 (idade média 32,3 ± 7,5 anos) e de 298 no Grupo 2 (idade média 32,7 ± 6,4 anos) completaram os questionários. A maioria das mulheres relatou ≥ 8 anos de escolaridade, estava emrelaçãomonogâmica e teve ≤ 2 gestações. Um total de 122 e de 87 usuárias do DIU-cobre e do SIU-LNG, respectivamente, pontuaram ≤ 26,55 no IFSF. Pontuações significativamente menores nos domínios físico, meio-ambiente e QV geral no WHOQOL-BREF foram encontrados no Grupo 1. Mais mulheres do Grupo 1 estavam insatisfeitas com o método. Conclusão Não encontramos diferenças na função sexual, entretanto havia menores pontuações em certos domínios da QV entre as usuárias do DIU-cobre. Não foi possível afirmar relação dessas diferenças com os métodos.

Assessment of biomarkers in women with endometriosis-associated pain using the ENG contraceptive implant or the 52 mg LNG-IUS: a non-inferiority randomised clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to assess the serum levels of the following biomarkers in women with endometriosis-associated pelvic pain before and after six months of using the etonogestrel (ENG) contraceptive implant or the 52 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS): cancer antigen (CA)-125, cluster of differentiation (CD) 23 and endometrial nerve fibre density. METHODS: The study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Campinas Medical School, Brazil. A total of 103 women with endometriosis-associated pain diagnosed by surgery, transvaginal ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance imaging were included. Endometrial nerve fibre density and serum levels of CA-125 and soluble CD23 were assessed before and after six months of using the allocated method and were correlated to 10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for non-cyclical pelvic pain and dysmenorrhoea. RESULTS: Both contraceptive methods significantly reduced concentrations of serum soluble CD23 and endometrial nerve fibre density (p < .001); however, CA-125 was significantly reduced only among users of the ENG implant (p < .05). No correlation was observed between reduction of biomarkers and improvement of VAS pain and dysmenorrhoea scores. No differences were observed between the ENG implant and the LNG-IUS. CONCLUSION: Both progestin-only contraceptives significantly reduced two out of the three biomarkers evaluated. These two biomarkers could, therefore, be used as surrogate markers to follow up medical treatment of endometriosis-associated pain.

Subclinical cardiovascular disease parameters after one year in new users of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate compared to copper-IUD.

PURPOSE: To evaluate markers of cardiovascular disease in women with normal insulin sensitivity who had recently initiated use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) as a contraceptive. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective, non-randomised, comparative study. Data of 30 women of 18-40 years of age, with normal hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp at baseline and body mass index (BMI) < 30, who opted to use DMPA or a copper intrauterine device (IUD) as a contraceptive, were analysed. Serum samples were collected for evaluation of the lipid and hepatic profile, C-reactive protein, TNF-α, interleukin-6, leptin/adiponectin ratio and free fatty acids; body composition was evaluated using DXA, blood pressure and carotid intima-media thickness were measured. Evaluations were performed at baseline and 12 months later. The groups were compared using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Significance level was 5%. RESULTS: The mean age of the women in the DMPA and IUD group was 28.7 ± 6.5 and 28.3 ± 5.8 years, respectively; the BMI was 23.0 ± 3.4 and 24.3 ± 2.7 kg/m2, respectively, in the same groups. At 12 months, triglyceride levels were higher in the DMPA group compared to the IUD group and there was an increase in apolipoprotein B-100 in relation to baseline in DMPA group; there were no other difference between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: No clinical cardiovascular effect was found but deterioration in CV markers was observed in the first year of use of DMPA.

Study of the effect of ulipristal acetate on human sperm ability to interact with tubal tissue and cumulus-oocyte-complexes.

OBJECTIVE: Ulispristal acetate (UPA) is a selective progesterone receptor modulator widely used for emergency contraception (EC). The described main mechanism of action is by inhibiting or delaying ovulation; however, the postovulatory effects of the drug are still on debate. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether UPA could interfere with human sperm fertilizing ability. STUDY DESIGN: Human motile spermatozoa were incubated under capacitating conditions with or without UPA, and then used to inseminate human tubal explants, mouse cumulus-oocyte complexes and zona-free hamster eggs. The ability of UPA to interact with human sperm progesterone (P)-binding sites was investigated by incubating the cells with fluorescent-labeled P and analyzing them by fluorescence microscopy. RESULTS: UPA did not affect the ability of human sperm to bind to human tubal tissue explants surface or to penetrate the mouse cumulus mass and the zona-free hamster eggs. In addition, concentrations of UPA much higher than those present in the plasma of EC pill users were required to bind to human sperm P-binding sites. CONCLUSIONS: Our study supports a lack of an agonist or antagonist action of UPA on different functional parameters associated with the fertilizing ability of human sperm. IMPLICATIONS: This study provides new functional evidence supporting that the contraceptive action of UPA is not related to effects on human sperm cells, contributing to a better understanding of the mechanism of action of UPA as EC.

Assessment of the quality of cervical mucus among users of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system at different times of use.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The quality of cervical mucus (CM) among the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) users is controversial. The objectives were to assess CM compared to the levels of oestradiol (E2) and the frequency of cycles with luteal activity among users of the LNG-IUS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 224 LNG-IUS users for between two months and five years were recruited at a Brazilian family planning clinic. For the cross-sectional part of the study, we enrolled 175 LNG-IUS users at 2, 6 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months after insertion (25 women in each group), and we performed one evaluation. For the prospective part of the study, we enrolled 49 LNG-IUS users at the same lengths of use after insertion (7 women in each group), and we evaluated these women once a week for five consecutive weeks. . RESULTS: Mean (± SEM) CM scores of all evaluations among women with single and weekly evaluations were between 3.3 ± 0.9 and 8.5 ± 0.3, respectively independently of the length of use of the LNG-IUS. Mean E2 values ranged from 45.5 ± 6.8 to 472.5 ± 34.7 pg/ml and the maximum ovarian follicle diameter on the days of evaluation varied from 14.0 ± 1.3 to 31.2 ± 0.4 mm. CONCLUSIONS: The mean CM score of all evaluations, independent of the length of use of the LNG-IUS and normal levels of serum E2, was below 10 was according to the WHO is inadequate for sperm penetration.

The Use of Long Acting Reversible Contraceptives and the Relationship between Discontinuation Rates due to Menopause and to Female and Male Sterilizations / Uso de contraceptivos reversíveis de longa duração e a relação entre taxas de descontinuidade devido à menopausa e à esterilização de homens e mulheres

Abstract Introduction Women require effective contraception until they reach menopause. The long acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) and the depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA, Depo-Provera(r), Pfizer, Puurs, Belgium) are great options and can replace possible sterilizations. Purpose To assess the relationship between the use of LARCs and DMPA and terminations ascribed to menopause and sterilizations in a Brazilian clinic. Methods We reviewed the records of women between 12 and 50 years of age attending the clinic that chose to use a LARC method or DMPA. Cumulative termination rates due to sterilization or because the woman had reached menopause were computed using single decrement life-table analysis over 32 years. We also examined all records of surgical sterilization at our hospital between the years 1980-2012. Results Three hundred thirty-two women had continuously used the same contraceptive until menopause, and 555 women had discontinued the method because they or their partners underwent sterilization. From year 20 to year 30 of use, levonorgestrel intrauterine-releasing system (LNG-IUS - Mirena(r), Bayer Oy, Turku, Finland; available since 1980), copper intrauterine device (IUD - available since 1980) and DMPA users showed a trend of cumulative higher discontinuation rates due to menopause when compared with the discontinuation rates due to sterilization. Over the study period, a steep decline in the use of sterilization occurred. Conclusion Over the past 15 years of research we have observed a trend: women usually preferred to continue using LARC methods or DMPA until menopause rather than decide for sterilization, be it their own, or their partners'. The annual number of sterilizations dropped in the same period. The use of LARC methods and DMPA until menopause is an important option to avoid sterilization, which requires a surgical procedure with potential complications.

Resumo Introdução Mulheres necessitam de contracepção até atingirem a menopausa. Os contraceptivos reversíveis de longa duração e o acetato de medroxiprogesterona de depósito (AMPD) são ótimas opções para substituir possíveis esterilizações. Objetivo Avaliar a relação entre o uso de contraceptivos reversíveis de longa duração (LARCs) e AMPD com terminações atribuídas à menopausa e a esterilizações em uma clínica brasileira. Métodos Revisamos os registros de mulheres entre 12 e 50 anos de idade atendidas em clínica e que escolheram usar LARC ou AMPD. Índices de terminação acumulada devido à esterilização ou à menopausa foram computados usando análise de tabela de vida durante 32 anos. Também examinamos todos os registros de cirurgias de esterilização em nosso hospital no período de 1980 a 2012. Resultados Trezentas e trinta e duas mulheres usaram continuamente o mesmo contraceptivo até a menopausa, e 555 mulheres não deram continuidade ao método pelo fato de elas ou seus parceiros terem se submetido à esterilização. De 20 a 30 anos de uso, usuários de sistema intrauterino de levonorgestrel, dispositivo intrauterino de cobre e AMPD apresentaram tendência de maiores índices de descontinuidade devido à menopausa quando comparados a índices de descontinuidade devido à esterilização. No período de estudo, ocorreu um declínio acentuado no uso de esterilização. Conclusão Nos últimos 15 anos do estudo, foi observada uma tendência na qual mulheres optaram mais por continuar usando LARC ou AMPD até a menopausa do que pela esterilização própria ou de seus parceiros. O número anual de esterilizações caiu no mesmo período. O uso de LARC e AMPD até a menopausa é uma opção importante para evitar a esterilização, que exige um procedimento cirúrgico com potenciais complicações.

Gasto energético e medidas antropométricas de novas usuárias do contraceptivo injetável trimestral de acetato de medroxiprogesterona de depósito / Energy expenditure and anthropometric measurements in new users of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate

Objetivo:Avaliar o gasto energético e as medidas antropométricas de mulheres durante o primeiro ano de uso do método contraceptivo de acetato de medroxiprogesterona de depósito.Métodos:Estudo prospectivo com grupo de comparação. Foram incluídas mulheres saudáveis, não obesas, nunca usuárias de acetato de medroxiprogesterona de depósito e sem antecedentes que pudessem contribuir para a variação do peso corporal; foram distribuídas em dois grupos, 28 usuárias de acetato de medroxiprogesterona e 24 usuárias de dispositivo intrauterino de cobre, pareadas por idade (±1 ano) e índice de massa corporal (kg/m2). As variáveis estudadas foram sociodemográficas (idade, etnia, tabagismo, etilismo, atividade física, classe econômica e escolaridade), peso (kg), índice de massa corporal, gasto energético basal e total, medidas de circunferência de cintura e quadril (cm) e relação cintura-quadril.Resultados:A idade das mulheres variou de 20-39 anos. As médias de idade/índice de massa corporal foram 29,6 (DP=±5,2) anos/23,9 (±3,6 kg/m2), no grupo de acetato de medroxiprogesterona de depósito, e de 28,6 (DP=±5,2) anos/ 24,5 (±2,7 kg/m2), no grupo de dispositivo intrauterino de cobre. Após análise de variância para medidas repetidas, as usuárias de acetato de medroxiprogesterona de depósito apresentaram ganho de 2,2 kg no peso corporal e de -0,2 kg no grupo do dispositivo intrauterino de cobre, sem diferença estatisticamente significativa entre eles. Não houve discrepância nas demais variáveis estudadas.Conclusão:Mulheres saudáveis e jovens não apresentaram mudança no peso, nas medidas e nos gastos energéticos durante o primeiro ano de uso do contraceptivo acetato de medroxiprogesterona. A orientação em relação aos hábitos saudáveis de vida e o monitoramento de medidas são importantes para o controle do peso corporal em usuárias de métodos contraceptivos.

Objective:The objective of this study was to assess energy expenditure and the anthropometric profile of women during the first year of use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate contraception.Methods:This prospective study included healthy non-obese women who had never used depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate and did not have a history of weight fluctuations. The women were divided into two groups composed of 28 depot medroxyprogesterone acetate users and 24 copper intrauterine device (TCu380A) users. They were paired for age (+1 year) and body mass index (+1 kg/m2). The following variables were used: sociodemographic characteristics (age, ethnicity, smoking status, alcohol consumption, physical activity, economic class, and education level), weight (kg), body max index, resting and total energy expenditure, waist and hip circumferences (cm), and waist-to-hip ratio.Results:The age of the women studied ranged from 20-39 years. The mean values of age/body mass index ratio were 29.6 (SD=+5.2) years/23.9 (+3.6 kg/m2) in the depot medroxyprogesterone acetate group and 28.6 (SD=+5.2) years/24.5 (+2.7 kg/m2) in the intrauterine device group. After conducting repeated measures analysis of variance, the users of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate showed weight gain of 2.2 kg, and those in the intrauterine device group showed weight loss of 0.2 kg without statistically significant difference between the groups. There were no significant differences between the other variables.Conclusion:There were no changes in weight, anthropometric measurements, and energy expenditure in the young and healthy women during the first year of use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate contraception. Guidelines and recommendations for a healthy lifestyle to avoid changes in the anthropometric measurements are important for weight control in users of contraceptive methods.