The impact of using the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device on the incidence of acne in adolescents and young women.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the impact of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) use on the incidence of acne in adolescents and young women. METHODS: A narrative review was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and SciELO assessing the incidence of acne in adolescents and young women using LNG-IUD (13.5, or 19.5 mg, or 52 mg). Cohort, cross-sectional studies, clinical trials, and meta-analyses were included, without a date limit. Studies that didn't evaluate women in the age of interest were excluded. Only articles in English were selected. RESULTS: Nine articles were included in this narrative review. Only clinical trials, cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies were evaluated. Two cross-sectional studies evaluated the incidence of acne in women using any contraceptive methods, with the incidence of acne being 36% in women aged 17 to 47 using LNG-IUD in one study. In another study, acne incidence ranged from 2 to 8% in women using any contraceptive methods, with higher rates in younger women and LNG-IUD users. The incidence of acne varies and participants between 16 to 35 years were more likely to report new acne or worsening of pre-existing acne. In a prospective cohort study of women between 16 and 24 years, acne was a common adverse effect, with 44% in the first year. CONCLUSION: The data indicate variability in the incidence of acne among LNG-IUD users, with a higher prevalence observed in younger women. Further research should focus on the effects of LNG-IUD on acne in young populations, with rigorous study designs and consideration of previous contraceptive use.

The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) is an important tool in the prevention of unplanned pregnancies in adolescents and young women. Acne is a possible adverse effect that could lead to discontinuation of the method.

''Inserting the etonorgestrel implant into the thigh: A case report''.

Etonorgestrel implant is inserted on the inner surface of the non-dominant medial upper arm in women, over the triceps area. However, this case report aims to describe an alternative insertion site for etonorgestrel implant - the medial side of the thigh - in nephropathic patients with arteriovenous fistulas undergoing hemodialysis.

Heavy menstrual bleeding in women with inherited bleeding disorders in use of LNG-IUS: A systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Inherited bleeding disorders may cause heavy menstrual bleeding in women, impacting quality of life and impairing daily and social activities. The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system is a potential treatment for these women, which might reduce menstrual blood loss. STUDY DESIGN: We performed a systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis to examine the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system in women with inherited bleeding disorders and heavy menstrual bleeding. RESULTS: A systematic search on PubMed, Embase and Cochrane yielded 583 results, of which six observational studies (n = 156) met inclusion criteria. Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system use in patients with inherited bleeding disorders and heavy menstrual bleeding was associated with amenorrhea in 60% of patients and a significant increase of 1.40 g/dL in hemoglobin and of 19.75 ng/mL in ferritin levels when comparing post- and pre-treatment levels. The post-treatment mean hemoglobin was 13.32 g/dL and the mean ferritin was 43.22 ng/dL. The rate of intrauterine device expulsion or removal due to mal position was low (13%), as was the need for intrauterine device removal due to lack of efficacy (14%). CONCLUSION: The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system may improve bleeding patterns and quality of life in patients with inherited bleeding disorders and heavy menstrual bleeding. IMPLICATIONS: Women with inherited bleeding disorders could benefit from levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system, so its use should be an option for this women.

Comparison of self-assessed and clinician-assessed hirsutism diagnosed according to the modified Ferriman-Gallwey scale among female outpatients in Brazil

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a self-assessment questionnaire for hirsutism using the latest cutoff values recommended by the Endocrine Society (ES) for Latin-American women and by the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE). Subject and methods Female premenopausal outpatients (n = 188) completed a self-assessment questionnaire, scoring hair presence across the nine areas evaluated by the modified Ferriman-Gallwey (mFG) scale. The results were compared with clinician-assessed scores rated independently by two trained physicians. Scores in the Hirsuta questionnaire, derived from self-assessment of five areas of the mFG scale, were also evaluated. Results The ethnic composition of the sample was as follows: 23.1% white, 25.8% black, 48.9% mixed, and 2.1% other backgrounds (Indigenous, Asian). The participants had age and BMI of (mean ± standard deviation) 33.7 ± 9.9 years and 29.8 ± 7.21 kg/m2, respectively. The most common areas of excessive hair growth were the chin, upper and lower abdomen, and thighs. Relative to clinician-assessed mFG scores, self-assessed mFG scores had an accuracy of 80% using ES criteria for hirsutism diagnosis, with a sensitivity of 95.45%, specificity of 56.25%, positive predictive value of 30.10%, and negative predictive value of 98.40%. Self-assessed mFG had lower accuracy (71%) for diagnosing hirsutism when the ESHRE criteria were applied. Conclusions Self-assessed mFG had low specificity, limiting its application. The results of this study do not support the use of the self-assessed mFG or Hirsuta scores for diagnosing hirsutism in a clinical setting, although both scoring systems may be useful for screening hirsutism in epidemiological studies.

Dietary pattern in women with polycystic ovary syndrome with and without associated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have a higher prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) than the general population. PCOS and NAFLD have common metabolic risk factors, however, the role of diet in NAFLD development is still uncertain in PCOS women. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the dietary patterns and nutritional intake in patients with PCOS with and without NAFLD. METHOD: Cross-sectional study that included patients with PCOS diagnosed according to Rotterdam criteria. All participants were submitted to abdominal ultrasound to investigate liver steatosis. Dietary profile was assessed by 24-hour food recall (24hR), and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Diet quality was assessed by the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) adapted for the Brazilian population. Physical activity practice was also assessed. RESULTS: 87 participants were included (average age 35.2 ± 5.7 years), among whom, 67 (77%) had NAFLD. The group with PCOS and NAFLD presented higher body mass index (BMI) (34.9 ± 4.5 vs. 30.4 ± 4.9 kg/m2; p = 0.001), Waist Circumference (WC) (103 [97‒113] vs. 95 [87.5‒100] cm; p < 0.001) and were considered physically active less frequently than those without NAFLD (34.3% vs. 60%; p = 0.04). Food intake and dietary patterns assessed by 24hR, FFQ and HEI presented no difference between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: PCOS women with coexistent NAFLD had higher BMI, WC and were less physically active than those without NAFLD. Dietary evaluation showed that PCOS women with NAFLD had no significant difference in macro and micronutrients or food group intake and diet quality in comparison to those without NAFLD.

Five-year Contraceptive Use of 52-mg Levonorgestrel Releasing Intrauterine System in Young Women, Menstrual Patterns, and New Contraceptive Choice.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the continuation rates of the 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) during the first 5 years of use, reasons for its discontinuation, bleeding patterns, and new contraceptive choice after the 5th year, in adolescents and young women. METHODS: The present study was a 5-year prospective cohort conducted in a Family Planning Service of a tertiary hospital in Brazil. We selected 100 healthy women between 15 and 24 years old who used 52-mg LNG-IUS for contraception. The clinical follow-up of these women took place from June 2017 to December 2022. The study evaluated the continuation rates of the method, reasons for its discontinuation, bleeding patterns, and new contraceptive choice after the 5th year. Continuous data were reported as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and range (minimum-maximum). Categorical variables were described as percentages. RESULTS: The continuation rates of LNG-IUS were 89.1% (82/92), 82.9% (72/87), 75.3% (64/85), 70.5% (60/85), and 64.2% (54/84) in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th years of use, respectively. The main reason for discontinuation was acne (11/30). Amenorrhea rates were 50, 54.1, 39, 35.7, and 51.8% at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months, respectively. All patients who completed the study and needed contraception after the 5th year opted for long-acting contraceptive methods (LARC). CONCLUSION: The LNG-IUS showed high continuation rates in adolescents and young women in the first 5 years of use. Most patients who completed the study chose a LARC method after the 5th year.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as taxas de continuação do sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG) 52 mg durante os primeiros 5 anos de uso, razões de sua descontinuação, padrões de sangramento e nova escolha contraceptiva após o 5° ano, em adolescentes e mulheres jovens. MéTODOS: O estudo foi uma coorte prospectiva de 5 anos realizada em um Serviço de Planejamento Familiar de um hospital terciário no Brasil. Selecionamos 100 mulheres saudáveis entre 15 e 24 anos que usaram o SIU-LNG 52 mg para contracepção. O acompanhamento clínico dessas mulheres ocorreu de junho de 2017 a dezembro de 2022. O estudo avaliou as taxas de continuação do método, razões de sua descontinuação, padrões de sangramento e nova escolha contraceptiva após o 5° ano. Os dados contínuos foram relatados como média ± DP e intervalo (mínimo-máximo). As variáveis categóricas foram descritas como porcentagens. RESULTADOS: As taxas de continuação do SIU-LNG foram 89,1% (82/92), 82,9% (72/87), 75,3% (64/85), 70,5% (60/85) e 64,2% (54/84) no 1°, 2°, 3°, 4° e 5° anos de uso, respectivamente. O principal motivo de descontinuação foi a acne (11/30). As taxas de amenorreia foram de 50, 54,1, 39, 35,7 e 51,8% aos 12, 24, 36, 48 e 60 meses, respectivamente. Todas as pacientes que completaram o estudo e necessitaram de contracepção após o 5° ano optaram por métodos contraceptivos de longa duração (LARC). CONCLUSãO: O SIU-LNG apresentou altas taxas de continuação em adolescentes e mulheres jovens nos primeiros 5 anos de uso. A maioria das pacientes que completou o estudo escolheu um método LARC após o 5° ano.

O uso de métodos contraceptivos hormonais em pacientes com asma: repercussões clínicas / The use of hormonal contraceptives methods in patients with asthma: clinical repercussions

Objetivo: Analisar o uso dos contraceptivos hormonais em mulheres com asma e a escolha desses métodos contraceptivos para essa população, com avaliação de eventuais repercussões sobre novos episódios de asma e sibilos. Métodos: Foram selecionados estudos longitudinais, ensaios clínicos, revisões sistemáticas e metanálises. As plataformas consultadas foram PubMed, Embase, Cochrane e SciELO, com a utilização dos descritores: "contracepção", "contracepção hormonal", "sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel" e "asma". Resultados: Dois grandes estudos demonstraram que o uso de contraceptivos hormonais esteve associado à redução do risco de novos episódios de asma. Uma revisão sistemática concluiu que os resultados para o uso de contraceptivos hormonais para mulheres com asma foram mistos, com aumento ou redução dos seguintes riscos: novo episódio de asma e aumento da frequência das crises e dos sibilos. O uso da contracepção hormonal em pacientes obesas portadoras de asma é controverso. Conclusão: Os resultados para o uso de contraceptivos hormonais em mulheres com asma são inconsistentes, com relatos de aumento ou de redução do risco de novos episódios. O uso do método contraceptivo deve ser discutido individualmente, levando-se em consideração outros fatores de risco associados e o desejo da mulher. A paciente deverá ser orientada se houver piora dos sintomas clínicos de asma na vigência do uso de qualquer método contraceptivo hormonal.

Objective: To analyze the use of hormonal contraceptives in women with asthma and the choice of this contraceptive method for this population, evaluating possible repercussions on new episodes of asthma and wheezing. Methods: Longitudinal studies, clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses were selected. Platforms consulted: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, SciELO, using the descriptors: "contraception", "hormonal contraception", "levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system" and "asthma". Results: Two large studies demonstrated that the use of hormonal contraceptives was associated with a reduced risk of new episodes of asthma. A systematic review concluded that the results for the use of hormonal contraceptives for women with asthma were mixed, with increased or decrease in the following risks: new asthma episodes, increased frequency and wheezing. The use of hormonal contraception in obese patients with asthma is controversial. Conclusion: The results for the use of hormonal contraceptives in women with asthma are inconsistent, with reports of increased or reduced risk of new episodes. The use of the contraceptive method should be discussed individually, taking into account other associated risk factors and the woman's desire. The patient will be advised if there is a worsening of the clinical symptoms of asthma while using any hormonal contraceptive method.

Use of 52-mg Levonorgestrel-Releasing Intrauterine System in Adolescents and Young Adult Women: 3-Year Follow-Up.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate continuance rates, bleeding patterns, and patient satisfaction with 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) use in adolescents and young adult women during the first 3 years of use DESIGN: We conducted an observational prospective study. SETTING: Family Planning Service of a tertiary hospital in Brazil PARTICIPANTS: One hundred adolescents and young women aged 16-24 years. INTERVENTION: Insertion of 52-mg LNG-IUS for the main purpose of contraception. Follow-up visits were conducted at 12, 24, and 36 months after insertion. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Continuance rates, reasons for discontinuation of the method, and women's satisfaction and bleeding patterns RESULTS: Among those who were not lost to follow-up, LNG-IUS continuance rates were 89.1% (82/92), 82.9% (72/87), and 75.3% (64/85) in the first, second, and third years of use, respectively. The main reason for discontinuation was acne, followed by expulsion of/malpositioned LNG-IUS. Other reasons for discontinuation were irregular uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, and abdominal pain. The amenorrhea rates were 50%, 54.1%, and 39% at 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. Spotting rates increased during the first 3 years of use (20.8%, 16.7%, and 26.6%, respectively). Adolescents and young women using the LNG-IUS showed high rates of satisfaction, with 93.9%, 100%, and 96.8% of women being very satisfied/satisfied in the first 3 years of use. Only 2 participants who continued using the LNG-IUS reported being very dissatisfied/dissatisfied in the third year of follow-up. CONCLUSION: The LNG-IUS showed high rates of continuation and satisfaction in the first 3 years of use in Brazilian adolescents and young adults. Most women reported a favorable bleeding pattern.

Comparison of image-based modified Ferriman-Gallway score evaluation with in-person evaluation: an alternative method for hirsutism diagnosis.

The gold standard for diagnosing hirsutism is based on the modified Ferriman-Gallway (mFG) score, requiring trained and in-person evaluation. Our study aimed to evaluate whether using mobile phone images of the nine mFG areas could offer an alternative way to support the diagnostic of hirsutism. All patients from an endocrine outpatient clinic underwent an initial mFG evaluation by two blinded, trained examiners. Then, images of the nine mFG areas were acquired using a mobile device (48 MP) under standard conditions and artificial illumination. A cutoff mFG score of ≥ 4 (suggested by European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology) or ≥ 6 (proposed by The Endocrine Society) has been established as the criteria for diagnosing hirsutism. After storage, the individual patients' images were submitted for mFG analysis by three independent, blinded examiners. Overall, 70 females were evaluated; 27.5% of the patients had an mFG score ≥ 4. The mean age ± SEM was 33.2 + 1.13 years. The first consideration was the evaluation of the examiners who analyzed the images. In this group, the inter-rater reliability based on the Fleiss' Kappa identified an agreement of 81.4%, with a Kappa index of 0.75 considered strong for clinical evaluations. For mFG score ≥ 6, the agreement was 77%, and the performance of Kappa Index was 0.62 (moderate). Independently of the cutoffs, the Bland-Altman analysis established a concordance of 0.89 (95% CI [0.83, 0.92]) between the in-person and image-based methods to score mFG. The lower limit of agreement of the estimated mFG scores was - 2.08 (95% CI [- 2.73, - 1.43]), and the upper limit of agreement was 4.14 (95% CI [3.491, 4.79]). We observed acceptable concordance between the image-based and in-person evaluation of mFG scores. Our results support the use of image acquisition of mFG areas as a valid approach for diagnosing hirsutism.

Dietary pattern in women with polycystic ovary syndrome with and without associated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Introduction Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have a higher prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) than the general population. PCOS and NAFLD have common metabolic risk factors, however, the role of diet in NAFLD development is still uncertain in PCOS women. Objective To evaluate and compare the dietary patterns and nutritional intake in patients with PCOS with and without NAFLD. Method Cross-sectional study that included patients with PCOS diagnosed according to Rotterdam criteria. All participants were submitted to abdominal ultrasound to investigate liver steatosis. Dietary profile was assessed by 24-hour food recall (24hR), and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Diet quality was assessed by the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) adapted for the Brazilian population. Physical activity practice was also assessed. Results 87 participants were included (average age 35.2 ± 5.7 years), among whom, 67 (77%) had NAFLD. The group with PCOS and NAFLD presented higher body mass index (BMI) (34.9 ± 4.5 vs. 30.4 ± 4.9 kg/m2; p = 0.001), Waist Circumference (WC) (103 [97‒113] vs. 95 [87.5‒100] cm; p < 0.001) and were considered physically active less frequently than those without NAFLD (34.3% vs. 60%; p = 0.04). Food intake and dietary patterns assessed by 24hR, FFQ and HEI presented no difference between the groups. Conclusions PCOS women with coexistent NAFLD had higher BMI, WC and were less physically active than those without NAFLD. Dietary evaluation showed that PCOS women with NAFLD had no significant difference in macro and micronutrients or food group intake and diet quality in comparison to those without NAFLD.

Five-year Contraceptive Use of 52-mg Levonorgestrel Releasing Intrauterine System in Young Women, Menstrual Patterns, and New Contraceptive Choice / Cinco anos de uso contraceptivo do sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel 52 mg em mulheres jovens, padrões menstruais e nova escolha contraceptiva

Abstract Objective To evaluate the continuation rates of the 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) during the first 5 years of use, reasons for its discontinuation, bleeding patterns, and new contraceptive choice after the 5th year, in adolescents and young women. Methods The present study was a 5-year prospective cohort conducted in a Family Planning Service of a tertiary hospital in Brazil. We selected 100 healthy women between 15 and 24 years old who used 52-mg LNG-IUS for contraception. The clinical follow-up of these women took place from June 2017 to December 2022. The study evaluated the continuation rates of the method, reasons for its discontinuation, bleeding patterns, and new contraceptive choice after the 5th year. Continuous data were reported as mean ± standard deviation (SD) and range (minimum-maximum). Categorical variables were described as percentages. Results The continuation rates of LNG-IUS were 89.1% (82/92), 82.9% (72/87), 75.3% (64/85), 70.5% (60/85), and 64.2% (54/84) in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th years of use, respectively. The main reason for discontinuation was acne (11/30). Amenorrhea rates were 50, 54.1, 39, 35.7, and 51.8% at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months, respectively. All patients who completed the study and needed contraception after the 5th year opted for long-acting contraceptive methods (LARC). Conclusion The LNG-IUS showed high continuation rates in adolescents and young women in the first 5 years of use. Most patients who completed the study chose a LARC method after the 5th year.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar as taxas de continuação do sistema intrauterino liberador de levonorgestrel (SIU-LNG) 52 mg durante os primeiros 5 anos de uso, razões de sua descontinuação, padrões de sangramento e nova escolha contraceptiva após o 5° ano, em adolescentes e mulheres jovens. Métodos O estudo foi uma coorte prospectiva de 5 anos realizada em um Serviço de Planejamento Familiar de um hospital terciário no Brasil. Selecionamos 100 mulheres saudáveis entre 15 e 24 anos que usaram o SIU-LNG 52 mg para contracepção. O acompanhamento clínico dessas mulheres ocorreu de junho de 2017 a dezembro de 2022. O estudo avaliou as taxas de continuação do método, razões de sua descontinuação, padrões de sangramento e nova escolha contraceptiva após o 5° ano. Os dados contínuos foram relatados como média ± DP e intervalo (mínimo-máximo). As variáveis categóricas foram descritas como porcentagens. Resultados As taxas de continuação do SIU-LNG foram 89,1% (82/92), 82,9% (72/87), 75,3% (64/85), 70,5% (60/85) e 64,2% (54/84) no 1°, 2°, 3°, 4° e 5° anos de uso, respectivamente. O principal motivo de descontinuação foi a acne (11/30). As taxas de amenorreia foram de 50, 54,1, 39, 35,7 e 51,8% aos 12, 24, 36, 48 e 60 meses, respectivamente. Todas as pacientes que completaram o estudo e necessitaram de contracepção após o 5° ano optaram por métodos contraceptivos de longa duração (LARC). Conclusão O SIU-LNG apresentou altas taxas de continuação em adolescentes e mulheres jovens nos primeiros 5 anos de uso. A maioria das pacientes que completou o estudo escolheu um método LARC após o 5° ano.

Use of naproxen versus intracervical block for pain control during the 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion in young women: a multivariate analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: To compare the effectiveness of 550 mg naproxen sodium versus 6 mL 2%-lidocaine intracervical block in pain lowering at the 52-mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) placement in young women. METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, 100 women aged 15-24 years were block-randomized to receive either 6 mL 2%-lidocaine intracervical block 5 min before the LNG-IUS insertion or 550 mg naproxen 30 min before the procedure. Forty-nine women received 550 mg naproxen and 51 received intracervical block. The primary outcome was pain at LNG-IUS insertion. Secondary outcomes were ease of insertion, insertion failures, and correct IUS positioning. Neither participants nor doctors were blinded. Pain at insertion was assessed by using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS). RESULTS: Women randomized to lidocaine intracervical block presented lower mean pain score at insertion, when compared to women who received naproxen (5.4 vs. 7.3, respectively; p < 0.001). Parous women had a 90.1% lower chance of experiencing severe pain (p = 0.004). There was a 49.8% reduction in the chance of severe pain for every 1-cm increase in the hysterometry (p = 0.002). The only complication observed during insertion was vasovagal-like reactions (7%). The insertion was performed without difficulty in 82% of the women. Participants in the intracervical block group presented higher proportion of malpositioned IUS on transvaginal ultrasound examination compared to women in naproxen group. Nevertheless, all the malpositioned IUS were inserted by resident physicians. CONCLUSION: Lidocaine intracervical block was found to be more effective than naproxen in reducing LNG-IUS insertion pain. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: RBR-68mmbp, Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials, Retrospectively registered (August 4, 2020), URL of trial registry record: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-68mmbp/ .

Pain scores at the insertion of the 52 MG levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system among nulligravidas and parous women.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the pain scores at the insertion of the 52 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) among nulligravidas, parous women with previous vaginal delivery and parous women with elective caesarean-delivery without any previous labour or cervix dilation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present research is a prospective, single-cohort study that included 413 women aged 15-49 years who opted for LNG-IUS placement for contraception or treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding. Women who participated in the present study were not submitted to any pharmacological pain-relieving intervention to perform the procedure. Pain at insertion was evaluated by using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Pain was classified as absent (0), mild (1-3), moderate (4-6), or severe (7-10). The women were divided as: (1) nulligravidas, (2) parous women with a previous vaginal delivery, or (3) parous women with elective caesarean-delivery without any previous labour or cervix dilation. RESULTS: Nulligravidas women presented a higher mean pain score, when compared to women with elective caesarean-delivery and women with previous vaginal delivery (6.6 ± 2.0 vs 5.5 ± 2.1 and 3.9 ± 2.4, respectively; p < 0.001). Nulligravidas and women with elective caesarean-delivery were more likely to have pain classified as moderate or severe (in relation to absent or mild) than women with previous vaginal delivery (p < 0.001). Multiple Linear Regression Analysis demonstrated that 29.5% of all variability of the pain score was explained by two predictor/independent variables: nulligravidas or women with elective caesarean and difficulty at IUD insertion. CONCLUSIONS: Women with previous vaginal delivery had lower pain scores at LNG-IUS insertion when compared to nulligravidas and women with elective caesarean-delivery without any previous labour.

Reconhecimento e diagnóstico dos sintomas cutâneos do hiperandrogenismo em mulheres: proposta do Grupo Appropriate Care for Women with Androgen Excess (AWARE)) / Recognition and diagnosis of hyperandrogenic skin symptoms in women: proposal of the Appropriate Care for Women with Androgen Excess group (AWARE))

O hiperandrogenismo representa um problema de saúde pública complexo. Essa condição pode acome- ter 1/5 das mulheres na idade reprodutiva e apresenta um impacto negativo importante na qualidade de vida. As mulheres com hiperandrogenismo podem apresentar uma combinação de diferentes sintomas e repercussões clínicas. Os sintomas cutüneos incluem a seborreia, acne, hirsutismo e aIopecia. Trata-se de uma condição desafiadora tanto para as mulheres afetadas quanto para os profissionais de saúde. A nomenclatura atribuída ao hiperandrogenismo é confusa e faltam ainda recomendações diagnósticas e terapêuticas padronizadas. O grupo Appropriate Care for Women with Androgen Excede (AWARE) foi criado com proposta de aborda os aspectos confusos e inconclusivos do hiperandrogenismo. Foram elaborados protocolos simplificados referentes ao diagnóstico e tratamento do hiperandrogenismo visando contribuir de forma mais eficaz com os médicos em seus diferentes cenários de atuação. O roteiro para o reconhecimento e abordagem dos sintomas cutâneos do hiperandrogenismo em mulheres compreende perguntas chaves e ações específicas, sinalizando para a indicação de métodos propedêuticos adicionais.(AU)

Hyperandrogenism is a complex public health problem. This condition can affect 1/5 of women in repro- ductive age and has a significant negative impact on quality of life. Women with hyperandrogenism may exhibit a combination of different symptoms and clinical repercussions. Cutaneous symptoms include seborrhea, acne, hirsutism, and alopecia. It is a challenging condition for both affected women and health professionals.The nomenclature attributed to hyperandrogenism is confusing, and standard diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations are lacking. The Appropriate Care for Women with Androgen Excess (AWARE) group was created to address the confusing and inconclusive aspects of hyperandrogenism. Simplified protocols have been developed for the diagnosis and treatment of hyperandrogenism, aiming to contribute more effectively to physicians in their different settings.The roadmap for recognizing and approaching the cutaneous symptoms of hyperandrogenism in women comprises key questions and specific actions, signaling for indication of additional propaedeutic methods.(AU)

Barriers and myths that limit the use of intrauterine contraception in nulliparous women: a survey of Brazilian gynaecologists.

OBJECTIVE: To understand the extent to which barriers and misperceptions about intrauterine contraception (IUC) remain among Brazilian gynaecologists, particularly for nulliparous women. METHODS: An online survey was developed to assess Brazilian gynaecologists' knowledge and attitudes towards IUC. Data collected included demographic and professional data, main barriers when considering IUC for women in general and/or nulliparous women, attitudes towards inclusion of IUC in contraceptive counselling, and opinions on what could increase IUC prescription for nulliparous women. A question regarding knowledge about WHO medical eligibility criteria (WHO MEC) was also included in the survey. RESULTS: 101 gynaecologists completed the survey. The insertion rate in nulliparous women was 79.2%. Brazilian gynaecologists were more likely to consider IUC in counselling or provide it on request for parous than for nulliparous women (p<0.05) and perceived more complications in nulliparous women. 74.2% of gynaecologists recognised a higher risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)/infertility associated with IUC use in nulliparous women than in parous women. Difficult and painful insertion were also relevant for 83.2% and 77.3% of the gynaecologists, respectively. Respondents showed a high level of awareness of the WHO MEC classification. CONCLUSIONS: The three most commonly reported barriers to considering IUC as a contraceptive option for nulliparous woman were concerns about PID and difficult or painful insertion. The challenge is to ensure that gynaecologists understand the evidence and do not disregard IUC as a potential option for nulliparous women.

Effect of letrozole in carcinogen-plus-estrogen-induced endometrial hyperplasia in mice.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of letrozole (Ltz) in carcinogen+estrogen-induced endometrial hyperplasia. METHODS: BALB/c female mice were divided into four groups of 12 animals each receiving an intrauterine dose of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) and weekly subcutaneous injections of estradiol hexaidrobenzoate (EHB), except for group I(control). The groups were divided in I (control), II (ENU+EHB), III (ENU+EHB+MPA) and IV (ENU+EHB+Ltz). Group III also received intramuscular injections of MPA (medroxy progesterone acetate) every four weeks, while group IV received oral doses of Ltz daily. At the end of 16 weeks, the animals were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected for the measurement of serum estradiol and progesterone levels. Uterine histological sections were made to evaluate the presence of endometrial proliferative lesions. Differences between groups were evaluated with student's t test, ANOVA and chi-square test. RESULTS: Groups ENU+EHB, ENU+EHB+MPA and ENU+EHB+Ltz showed varying degrees of endometrial hyperplasia. The incidence of hyperplasia in groups ENU+EHB and ENU+EHB+Ltz was higher and more severe than in group ENU+EHB+MPA. Control group showed lower levels of serum estradiol than the other groups. CONCLUSION: There was no evidence that letrozole could act as an antiestrogenic drug in the development of endometrial proliferative lesions.

Effect of letrozole in carcinogen-plus-estrogen-induced endometrial hyperplasia in mice

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of letrozole (Ltz) in carcinogen+estrogen-induced endometrial hyperplasia. METHODS: BALB/c female mice were divided into four groups of 12 animals each receiving an intrauterine dose of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) and weekly subcutaneous injections of estradiol hexaidrobenzoate (EHB), except for group I(control). The groups were divided in I (control), II (ENU+EHB), III (ENU+EHB+MPA) and IV (ENU+EHB+Ltz). Group III also received intramuscular injections of MPA (medroxy progesterone acetate) every four weeks, while group IV received oral doses of Ltz daily. At the end of 16 weeks, the animals were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected for the measurement of serum estradiol and progesterone levels. Uterine histological sections were made to evaluate the presence of endometrial proliferative lesions. Differences between groups were evaluated with student's t test, ANOVA and chi-square test. RESULTS: Groups ENU+EHB, ENU+EHB+MPA and ENU+EHB+Ltz showed varying degrees of endometrial hyperplasia. The incidence of hyperplasia in groups ENU+EHB and ENU+EHB+Ltz was higher and more severe than in group ENU+EHB+MPA. Control group showed lower levels of serum estradiol than the other groups. CONCLUSION: There was no evidence that letrozole could act as an antiestrogenic drug in the development of endometrial proliferative lesions.

Associação entre lipid accumulation product (LAP) e hirsutismo na síndrome do ovário policístico.

OBJECTIVE: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine metabolic disorder in women between menarche and menopause. Clinical hyperandrogenism is the most important diagnostic criterion of the syndrome, which manifests as hirsutism in 70% of cases. Hirsute carriers of PCOS have high cardiovascular risk. Lipid accumulation product (LAP) is an index for the evaluation of lipid accumulation in adults and the prediction of cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between LAP and hirsutism in women with PCOS. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional observational study of a secondary database, which included 263 patients who had visited the Hyperandrogenism Outpatient Clinic from November 2009 to July 2014. The exclusion criteria were patients without Ferriman-Gallwey index (FGI) and/or LAP data. We used the Rotterdam criteria for the diagnosis of PCOS. All patients underwent medical assessment followed by measurement and recording of anthropometric data and the laboratory tests for measurement of the following: thyroid-stimulating hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, prolactin, total testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, 17-α-hydroxyprogesterone (follicular phase), glycohemoglobin A1c, and basal insulin. In addition, the subjects underwent lipid profiling and oral glucose tolerance tests. Other laboratory measurements were determined according to clinical criteria. LAP and the homeostatic model assessment index (HOMA-IR) were calculated using the data obtained. We divided patients into two groups: the PCOS group with normal LAP (< 34.5) and the PCOS group with altered LAP (> 34.5) to compare the occurrence of hirsutism. For statistical analysis, we used SPSS Statistics for Windows® and Microsoft Excel programs, with descriptive (frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations) and comparative analyses (Student's t-test and Chi-square test). We considered relations significant when the p-value was ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: LAP was high in most patients (n = 177; 67.3%) and the FGI indicated that 58.5% of the patients (n = 154) had hirsutism. The analysis by LAP quartiles showed a positive correlation (p = 0.04) among patients with a high FGI and an upper quartile LAP (> 79.5) when compared with those with LAP < 29.0 (lower quartile). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated an association between high LAP and hirsutism. The FGI could represent a simple and low-cost tool to infer an increased cardiovascular risk in women with PCOS.

Non-hormonal and hormonal intrauterine contraception: survey of patients' perceptions in four Latin American countries.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to understand women's perceived barriers to the use of hormonal and non-hormonal intrauterine contraception in Latin America. METHODS: We developed an online survey for women in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico who were seeking contraception. The questions aimed at evaluating patient awareness of negative stories and statements, as well as perceived barriers to the copper intrauterine device (IUD) and the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS). RESULTS: The survey was mailed to 2300 women. A total of 1953 responses were received from Argentina (n = 465), Brazil (n = 380), Colombia (n = 613) and Mexico (n = 495). More women reported having heard negative stories about the copper IUD than about the LNG-IUS. More women believed that the copper IUD, rather than the LNG-IUS, was suitable only for those who had already had children. More women believed that weight gain (14.3% vs. 38.2%; p < 0.001), mood swings (14.1% vs. 38.7%; p < 0.001) and infertility (16.3% vs. 19.9%; p = 0.016) were possible side effects of the LNG-IUS. By contrast, more women believed that abortion (36% vs. 22.7%; p < 0.001), pelvic infections (42.1% vs. 15.7%; p < 0.001) and ectopic pregnancy (43.5% vs 23.5%; p < 0.001) were side effects more associated with the copper IUD. More believed the copper IUD was associated with less pain during placement and removal compared with the LNG-IUS (42.8% vs. 31.2%; p < 0.001). The perception of increased risk of contracting a sexual transmitted disease did not differ between the methods (IUD vs. LNG-IUS, 21.7% vs. 20.3%; p = 0.388). CONCLUSIONS: Respondents to a web-based survey in four Latin American countries have misperceptions regarding the adverse effects and risks of intrauterine contraception, which may hamper the use of these safe and efficient contraceptive methods. Education about the true risks and benefits involved is fundamental to improving patient acceptance and compliance as well as reducing unplanned pregnancies and unsafe abortions.