Effects of intrauterine device use on attack frequency and severity in woman of reproductive age with familial Mediterranean fever.

AIM: Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is the most common inherited autoinflammatory disease in the world. There are known triggers to initiate an FMF attack, yet potential effects of intrauterine devices (IUD) in women of reproductive age have not been evaluated before. METHOD: Consecutive female patients with FMF who ever used IUD over the age of 18 were enrolled. Female patients with FMF were sub grouped according to the type of IUD they use. FMF attack frequency, severity, duration, presence of dysmenorrhea, severity of dysmenorrhea, having attacks during menstruation before and after IUD use were questioned. Demographic and clinical data were collected from hospital database. RESULTS: When all patients with IUD use were evaluated, it was found that the frequency of attacks increased after IUD insertion at 3rd and 12th months (median [min-max] attack frequency at 3rd month, 1 (0-3) vs 1 (0-6), p = 0.002, median [min-max] attack frequency at 12th month, 2 (0-12) vs 3.5 (0-18), p = 0.028). Attack severity measured by VAS pain was also significantly increased. Attack duration and menstrual pain was similar before and after IUD use. Attack frequency at 3rd and 12th months, attack severity and menstrual pain was all increased significantly in Cu-IUD users, whereas none of these parameters deteriorated in LNG-IUD group. CONCLUSION: IUD use, especially Cu-IUD, may increase the frequency and severity of attacks in female patients with FMF. Clinicians may benefit from considering LGN-IUD if IUDs are preferred as contraception in women of childbearing age with FMF.

Etonogestrel-releasing subdermal contraceptive implant: Budget impact analysis based on the Brazilian private healthcare system.

High rates of unplanned pregnancies persist despite pharmacological developments and advancements in contraceptive methods. Here, we demonstrate that the etonogestrel-releasing subdermal contraceptive implant (IMP-ETN) may be an appropriate and cost-effective alternative to levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems (LNG-IUSs) for women in Brazil. For our pharmacoeconomic analysis, we reviewed the literature on IMP-ETN regarding its acceptance, eligibility criteria, choice, relations with age, adverse events and, finally, the unmet need in the fee-for-service private healthcare sector. We considered qualitative observations in combination with quantitative analysis and performed a deterministic sensitivity analysis to investigate whether this technology can be self-sustainable over a period of five years. The target population for this analysis comprised 158,696 women. Compared with the continued use of LNG-IUSs, adopting the IMP-ETN can result in a cost avoidance of $ 7.640.804,02 in the first year and $ 82,455,254.43 in five years. Disseminating information among physicians will promote this change and strengthen the potential cost avoided by private health system payers. These savings can be used to improve other healthcare programs and strategies. Moreover, the principles of care can be promoted by improving and adapting healthcare systems and expanding treatment and follow-up strategies. This would also provide support to women's reproductive rights and improve their quality of life. Our results suggest that the IMP-ETN has a favorable cost-effectiveness profile. Given all its advantages and negative incremental cost impact over a period of five years, the IMP-ETN may be a more favorable alternative to LNG-IUSs. Therefore, it should be offered to beneficiaries with a private healthcare plan. This analysis overcomes previous barriers to the use of cost-benefit models, and our results may help balance decision-making by policymakers, technical consultants, and researchers.

Effects of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, the copper IUD and the levonorgestrel implant on testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin and free testosterone levels: ancillary study of the ECHO randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Robust information on relative effects of hormonal contraceptives on endogenous androgens is important for understanding beneficial and adverse effects, method choice and development of new methods. METHODS: In this ancillary study at the East London, South Africa site of the ECHO multicentre randomized trial, we compared effects of three contraceptive methods on serum androgen levels among contraceptive users aged 18 to 35 years. Participants were allocated by centrally-managed randomization to open label depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), copper intrauterine device (IUD) or levonorgestrel implant. The primary outcome was free testosterone at 6 months. RESULTS: We analysed stored baseline and 6-month serum samples in 398/615 participants (DMPA-IM 131/205, IUD 135/205 and implant 132/205). Median testosterone levels at baseline were DMPA-IM 0.82, IUD 0.9 and implant 0.87 nmol/L; at 6 months, DMPA 0.68 (lower than IUD, mean percentage difference 28.35, (p <  0.001), IUD 0.86 (unchanged) and implant 0.66, lower than IUD, mean percentage difference - 22.98, p <  0.001). Median SHBG levels at baseline were DMPA 52.4, IUD 50.5 and implant 55.75 nmol/L; at 6 months, DMPA 40.65, lower than IUD (mean percentage difference 21.19, p = 0.005), IUD 49.1 (unchanged), and implant 23.35 nmol/L, lower than IUD (mean percentage difference - 50.04, p <  0.001 and than DMPA (mean percentage difference - 39.45, p <  0.001). Free testosterone levels at baseline were DMPA 10, IUD 12 and implant 11 pmol/L; at 6 months, DMPA 11, less than IUD (mean percentage difference 13.53, p = 0.047), IUD 12 and implant 14, higher than IUD (mean percentage difference 14.15, p = 0.038) and than DMPA, (mean percentage difference 29.60, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This is the first randomized trial to show lower SHBG and higher free testosterone with the levonorgestrel implant than with DMPA, and contrasts with reports of increased SHBG with combined oral ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel use, and reduced androgens (and impaired sexual function) reported with the etonorgestrel implant. The higher free testosterone with the LNG implant might improve sexual function, mood and bone health as well as increasing side-effects such as acne and hirsutism, and is consistent with the greater sexual activity (with respect to multiple sex partners, new sex partner and unprotected sex) with the implant compared with DMPA documented in the ECHO study. ECHO TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov , number NCT02550067 15/09/2015. Contraception, or family planning, is central to the role of women in societies. It is most important to have accurate information on the relative side-effects of various contraceptive options in order to empower women to make informed choices regarding their preferred method. Hormonal contraceptives contain various forms of the female sex hormones, estrogens and/or progestogens. These hormones have direct effects on the users, as well as modifying the levels of the users' own circulating sex hormones, both the 'female' and the 'male' sex hormones (androgens). In this study, consenting participants requesting contraception, were allocated randomly to receive either depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM) a 3-monthly progestogen injection, the copper intrauterine device (IUD), a non-hormonal contraceptive inserted within the womb, or the levonorgestrel implant, a device placed under the skin which releases a progestogen for 5 years. We measured the participants' androgen levels after 6 months, and found for the first time that the active form of testosterone (free testosterone) was 29% higher with the implant than with DMPA-IM. The level with the IUD was intermediate, and significantly different from the other two methods. This finding is relevant to the effects experienced by users of these methods, because free testosterone has effects on sexual function, bone health and mood, as well as on conditions such as acne and hair distribution patterns.

Effects of injectable contraception with depot medroxyprogesterone acetate or norethisterone enanthate on estradiol levels and menstrual, psychological and behavioral measures relevant to HIV risk: The WHICH randomized trial.

BACKGROUND: Observational data suggest lower HIV risk with norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN) than with depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate intramuscular (DMPA-IM) injectable contraceptives. If confirmed, a switch between these similar injectable methods would be programmatically feasible and could impact the trajectory of the HIV epidemic. We aimed in this paper to investigate the effects of DMPA-IM and NET-EN on estradiol levels, measures of depression and sexual activity and menstrual effects, relevant to HIV risk; and to ascertain whether these measures are associated with estradiol levels. METHODS: This open-label trial conducted at two sites in South Africa from 5 November 2018 to 30 November 2019, randomized HIV-negative women aged 18-40 to DMPA-IM 150 mg intramuscular 12-weekly (n = 262) or NET-EN 200 mg intramuscular 8-weekly (n = 259). Data were collected on hormonal, behavioral and menstrual effects at baseline and at 25 weeks (25W). RESULTS: At 25W, median 17ß estradiol levels were substantially lower than at baseline (p<0.001) for both methods: 76.5 pmol/L (interquartile range (IQR) 54.1 to 104.2) in the DMPA-IM group (n = 222), and 69.8 pmol/L (IQR: 55.1 to 89.3) in the NET-EN group (n = 225), with no statistical difference between the two methods (p = 0.450). Compared with DMPA-IM, NET-EN users reported significantly less amenorrhoea, fewer sexual acts, fewer users reporting at least one act of unprotected sex, more condom use with steady partner, more days with urge for sexual intercourse, more days feeling partner does not love her, and more days feeling sad for no reason. We did not find a clear association between estradiol levels and sexual behavior, depression and menstrual effects. Behavioral outcomes suggest less sexual exposure with NET-EN than DMPA-IM. The strength of this evidence is high due to the randomized study design and the consistency of results across the outcomes measured. CONCLUSIONS: Estradiol levels were reduced to postmenopausal levels by both methods. Secondary outcomes suggesting less sexual exposure with NET-EN are consistent with reported observational evidence of less HIV risk with NET-EN. A randomized trial powered for HIV acquisition is feasible and needed to answer this important question. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PACTR 202009758229976.

The use of LNG-IUS-19.5 mg in daily gynecological routine practice in Germany: data from the Kyleena™ Satisfaction Study (KYSS).

PURPOSE: The Kyleena™ Satisfaction Study (KYSS) provided the first data on 19.5 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS-19.5 mg) use in routine clinical practice. Here we report results from the German participants in KYSS. METHODS: This prospective, observational, single-arm cohort study recruited women who independently chose to use LNG-IUS-19.5 mg during routine counseling in Germany. Overall satisfaction and bleeding profile satisfaction, continuation rates, and safety profile were evaluated at 12 months or premature end of observation (EoO). RESULTS: In the German study population, LNG-IUS-19.5 mg placement was attempted in 508 women and successful in 506 women. Mean age was 32.3 years, and 60.0% (n = 305/508) were parous. Placement was considered easy and associated with no more than mild pain, even in younger and nulliparous participants. Of those with satisfaction data available, 87.6% (n = 388/443) were satisfied with LNG-IUS-19.5 mg at 12 months/EoO. Satisfaction was similar for parous (86.9%, n = 238/274) and nulliparous (88.8%, n = 150/169) women, and was independent of age, prior contraceptive method, or reason for choosing LNG-IUS-19.5 mg. Most participants (73.6%, n = 299/406) were also satisfied with their bleeding profile at 12 months/EoO, independent of parity, age, prior contraceptive method, presence of amenorrhea or dysmenorrhea severity. The 12-month continuation rate was 84.1% (n = 427/508). Most discontinuations were due to loss to follow-up (8.5%, n = 43/508) or treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) (4.7%, n = 24/508). TEAEs were reported in 12.6% (n = 64) of participants, with 9.3% (n = 47) considered to have an LNG-IUS-19.5 mg-related TEAE. CONCLUSION: Our real-world findings on LNG-IUS-19.5 mg use in German KYSS participants reflected its suitability for a broad population, including young and nulliparous women. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03182140 (date of registration: June 2017).

Amenorrhea in adolescents using the etonogestrel contraceptive implant.

OBJECTIVE: Clinical factors related to development of amenorrhea in adolescents with the etonogestrel contraceptive implant are not well-understood. The purpose of this study is to describe what baseline clinical characteristics are associated with amenorrhea in adolescents with a contraceptive implant 12 months after placement. STUDY DESIGN: This retrospective cohort study included 252 post-menarchal individuals aged 12-22 years with a contraceptive implant placed between 2016-2020. Data abstracted at insertion, three months post-insertion, and 12 months post-insertion included demographics, baseline bleeding pattern, prior contraception use, post-insertion bleeding pattern, and method discontinuation. We assessed possible predictive characteristics of our outcomes using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: Twenty nine percent of patients were amenorrheic 12 months after placement. Patients who were amenorrheic at 12 months were more likely to be obese (41.1% vs 24.6%, p = 0.01), to have been amenorrheic prior to implant insertion (16.9% vs 5.4%, p < 0.01, to have used hormonal contraception immediately prior to insertion (42.5% vs 26.3%, p = 0.01), to have had the most recent contraceptive method being another implant (12.3% vs 3.6%, p = 0.02), and to have developed amenorrhea within three months after placement (22.2% vs 12.6%, p < 0.01). After multivariable regression analysis, only obesity (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.2 95% CI 1.1-4.2) and amenorrhea at three months (aOR 3.6, CI 1.1-11.5) were associated with amenorrhea at 12 months. CONCLUSION: Obesity and early amenorrhea were associated with 12-month amenorrhea in adolescents using the etonogestrel subdermal implant. Understanding this can help with contraceptive method selection and counseling for patients and providers. IMPLICATIONS: Obesity and early amenorrhea with the etonogestrel contraceptive implant are associated with longer-term amenorrhea in adolescents using this method. These findings can aid providers with method selection and pre-insertion decision-making for adolescents considering contraceptive implant use, as well as continued counseling after placement.

Adjusting Injectable Contraceptive Use for Months Since the Last Injection.

Injectables are one of the most popular methods of contraception worldwide, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. An advantage of injectables over shorter-acting methods is that they provide additional flexibility by not requiring re-supply as frequently. However, there is a risk that injectable users may delay their next injection and may therefore have reduced or no protection from pregnancy. In surveys, women may report that they are using contraception in the form of injectables when the time since they had their last injection (more than four months) would imply that they have reduced protection against the risk of pregnancy. We carried out two field studies in urban Malawi, and we record reported injectable contraceptive use while also asking the number of months since women received their last injection. We observe that 13.8 percent of women who report using injectables also report that they received their last injection more than four months ago, and 11 percent report that they received their last injection more than six months ago. Our analysis highlights the need for additional follow-up with women who report using injectables in surveys to confirm whether they are, in fact, using the method effectively.

Factors that influence the choice of long-acting reversible contraceptive use among adolescents post-abortion in Chongqing, China: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Induced abortion can seriously harm the physical and mental health of adolescent women. Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) can effectively reduce unplanned pregnancies and prevent repeated abortions among adolescents. This study aimed to analyse the factors affecting the choice of LARC among adolescents in Chongqing of China. METHODS: A total of 555 adolescents who underwent induced abortions for unplanned pregnancies between January 2019 and October 2021 were selected as study subjects. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors affecting adolescent LARC choices following induced abortions. RESULTS: The factors that affected adolescent LARC choices included an average monthly income ≥ ¥3000 (OR = 3.432, 95% CI: 1.429∼8.244), history of previous abortions (OR = 3.141, 95% CI: 1.632∼6.045), worrying about unplanned pregnancy (OR = 0.365, 95% CI: 0.180∼0.740), parental support for using LARC (OR = 3.549, 95% CI: 1.607∼7.839), sexual partners' support for using LARC (OR = 2.349, 95% CI: 1.068∼5.167), concerns about using LARC (OR = 0.362, 95% CI: 0.176∼0.745), and willingness to use free IUDs (OR = 13.582, 95% CI: 7.173∼25.717). CONCLUSION: Cost is one of the factors affecting LARC choices. Parents and sexual partners may play important role in the choice of LARC.

The study analysed the choice of contraceptive methods and the factors affecting the choice of long-acting reversible contraception methods after induced abortion among adolescents in Chongqing, China. The results showed that the income level, history of previous abortions, extent of worrying about unplanned pregnancy, parents' and sexual partners' attitude towards to use long-acting reversible contraception methods, concerns about using long-acting reversible contraception methods, and willingness to use free intrauterine devices were the factors affecting the choice of long-acting reversible contraception methods after induced abortion among adolescents.

Pharmacodynamic evaluation of the etonogestrel contraceptive implant initiated midcycle with and without ulipristal acetate: An exploratory study.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the incidence of ovulation suppression within five days of etonogestrel 68 mg implant insertion in the presence of a dominant follicle with and without same-day ulipristal acetate. STUDY DESIGN: This single site non-masked, exploratory randomized trial recruited people age 18-35 years with regular menstrual cycles, no pregnancy risk, and confirmed ovulatory function. We initiated transvaginal ultrasound examinations on menstrual day 7-9 and randomized participants 1:1 to etonogestrel implant alone or with concomitant ulipristal acetate 30 mg oral when a dominant follicle reached ≥14 mm in diameter. We completed daily sonography and serum hormone levels for up to seven days or transitioned to labs alone if sonographic follicular rupture occurred. We defined ovulation as follicular rupture followed by progesterone >3 ng/mL. We calculated point estimates, risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals for ovulation for each group. Ovulation suppression of ≥44% in either group (the follicular rupture suppression rate with oral levonorgestrel emergency contraception), would prompt future method testing. RESULTS: From October 2020 to October 2022, we enrolled 40 people and 39 completed primary outcome assessments: 20 with etonogestrel implant alone (mean follicular size at randomization: 15.2 mm ± 0.9 mm) and 19 with etonogestrel implant + ulipristal acetate (mean follicular size at randomization: 15.4 mm ± 1.2 mm, p = 0.6). Ovulation suppression occurred in 13 (65%) of etonogestrel implant-alone participants (Risk ratio 0.6 (95% CI: 0.3, 1.1), p = 0.08) and seven (37%) of implant + ulipristal acetate participants. CONCLUSIONS: Ovulation suppression of the etonogestrel implant alone exceeds threshold testing for future research while the implant + ulipristal acetate does not. IMPLICATIONS: Data are lacking on midcycle ovulation suppression for the etonogestrel implant with and without oral ulipristal acetate. In this exploratory study, ovulation suppression occurred in 65% of implant participants and 37% of implant + ulipristal acetate participants. Ovulation suppression of the implant alone exceeds threshold testing for future emergency contraception research.

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and breast cancer: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: Short-acting progestin-only injectables containing depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) are a safe method of contraception. Although DMPA has been available for several decades, there is little data on its influence on the risk of breast cancer. Hence, the aim of this paper was to provide an overview of the existing studies and create clarity regarding a possible association with breast cancer. METHODS: Literature searches were executed in MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov and ICTRP. Search terms were related to DMPA and breast cancer. After elimination of duplicates, 3'850 studies were identified and assessed according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, ten studies were selected and included in this review. RESULTS: All the selected papers were case-control-studies, except for one pooled analysis and one study comparing observed and expected number of cancer cases. Most of the included studies found no overall elevated breast cancer incidence in DMPA users, only one study found a slightly increased risk and two studies concluded with a significant increase for the overall breast cancer risk. CONCLUSION: There is little evidence that DMPA may increase the overall risk for breast cancer. However, the incidence of breast cancer is possibly increased in current and more recent users, especially in women younger than 35 years. Long-term use did not result in any risk increase. Nevertheless, further studies will be necessary to confirm these findings and weigh up the individual risks and benefits of this contraceptive method.

Impact of the Affordable Care Act on Prescription Contraceptive Use and Costs Among Privately Insured Women, 2006-2020.

BACKGROUND: In the years immediately following the Affordable Care Act (ACA)'s contraceptive coverage requirement, out-of-pocket costs fell for all Food and Drug Administration-approved contraceptive methods and use of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) increased. This analysis examines whether these trends have continued through 2020 for privately insured women. METHODS: Using 2006-2020 MarketScan data, we examined trends in prescription contraceptive use and out-of-pocket costs among women 13 to 49 years old. Multivariable analyses model the likelihood of contraceptive use and paying $0 post-ACA requirement (vs. pre-ACA requirement) for contraception, controlling for age group, U.S. region, urban versus rural, and cohort year. RESULTS: The likelihood of LARC insertion increased post-ACA requirement (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.127, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.121-1.133), with insertion rates peaking at 3.73% for intrauterine devices (IUDs) and 1.08% for implants in 2019, before declining with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Although the likelihood of paying $0 for LARC increased after the ACA requirement (IUD: aOR 5.495, 95% CI 5.278-5.716; implant: aOR 7.199, 95% CI 6.992-7.412), the proportion of individuals paying $0 declined to 69% for IUDs and 73% for implants in 2020, after having peaked at 88% in 2014 and 90% in 2016, respectively. For oral contraceptives, both use (aOR 1.028, 95% CI 1.026-1.030) and paying $0 (aOR 20.399, 95% CI 20.301-20.499) increased significantly after the ACA requirement. CONCLUSION: With the exception of oral contraceptives, the proportion of individuals paying $0 for all contraceptive methods declined after peaking in 2014 for IUDs, 2016 for the implant, and 2019 for non-LARC methods. Future monitoring is needed to understand the continuing impact of the ACA requirement on prescription contraceptive use and costs.

Reversible female contraceptives: historical, current, and future perspectives†.

Contraception is a practice with extensive and complicated social and scientific histories. From cycle tracking, to the very first prescription contraceptive pill, to now having over-the-counter contraceptives on demand, family planning is an aspect of healthcare that has undergone and will continue to undergo several transformations through time. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current reversible hormonal and non-hormonal birth control methods as well as their mechanism of action, safety, and effectiveness specifically for individuals who can become pregnant. Additionally, we discuss the latest Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved hormonal method containing estetrol and drospirenone that has not yet been used worldwide as well as the first FDA-approved hormonal over-the-counter progestin-only pills. We also review available data on novel hormonal delivery through microchip, microneedle, and the latest FDA-approved non-hormonal methods such as vaginal pH regulators. Finally, this review will assist in advancing female contraceptive method development by underlining constructive directions for future pursuits. Information was gathered from the NCBI and Google Scholars databases using English and included publications from 1900 to present. Search terms included contraceptive names as well as efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action. In summary, we suggest that investigators consider the side effects and acceptability together with the efficacy of contraceptive candidate towards their development.

Evaluating resectoscopy and the levonorgestrel intrauterine system for intermenstrual bleeding associated with cesarean scar defects: A retrospective study of treatment outcomes.

AIM: To compare and evaluate the efficacy of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUD) and resectoscopy remodeling procedure for intermenstrual bleeding associated with previous cesarean delivery scar defect (PCDS). METHODS: A retrospective comparative study was conducted on patients with PCDS receiving LNG-IUD (levonorgestrel 20 µg/24 h, N = 33) or resectoscopy remodeling (N = 27). Treatment outcomes were compared over 1, 6, and 12 months. Outcomes in patients with a retroverted or large uterus size, defect size, and local vascularization also were evaluated. RESULTS: At 12 months post-treatment, there were no significant differences between groups in efficacy rate; however, the reduction of intermenstrual bleeding days was higher in the LNG-IUD group than in the resectoscopy group (13.6 vs. 8.5 days, p = 0.015). Within the first year, both groups experienced a reduction in bleeding days, but the decrease was greater in the LNG-IUD group. Individuals exhibiting increased local vascularization at the defect site experienced more favorable outcomes in the LNG-IUD group than the resectoscopy group (p = 0.016), and who responded poorly tended to have a significantly larger uterus in the LNG-IUD group (p = 0.019). No significant differences were observed in treatment outcomes for patients with a retroverted uterus or large defect in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings support that the LNG-IUD is as effective as resectoscopy in reducing intermenstrual bleeding days associated with PCDS and can be safely applied to patients without recent fertility aspirations. Patients with increased local vascularization observed during hysteroscopy may benefit more from LNG-IUD intervention than resectoscopy.

The Association Between Hormonal Contraceptive Use and Anemia Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women: An Analysis of Data From 51 Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

PURPOSE: This study explores whether adolescent girls and young women aged 15-24 who use hormonal methods of contraception are more or less likely to be anemic than their peers. We further examine whether the association between anemia and hormonal contraception varies based on the severity of anemia or the duration of method use. METHODS: We conducted secondary analysis of data available for 51 low- and middle-income countries from the Demographic and Health Surveys. For each country, we used logistic regression models to explore the odds of being anemic (mildly, moderately, or severely) for those using hormonal methods of contraception. We also explored the odds of being moderately or severely anemic based on hormonal method use. Drawing on country-level effect estimates, we conducted meta-regression analyses to produce overall estimates of the association between anemia and hormonal contraception. RESULTS: Overall, adolescent girls and young women using hormonal methods had lower odds of being mildly, moderately, or severely anemic (adjusted odds ratio 0.68; p < .001) and lower odds of being moderately or severely anemic (adjusted odds ratio 0.57; p < .001) compared to those not using any contraception. Both short- and long-term users of hormonal methods had lower odds of being anemic and lower odds of being moderately or severely anemic compared to those not using hormonal methods. DISCUSSION: This study furthers our understanding of the association between anemia and use of hormonal contraception among adolescent girls and young women. More research is needed to assess causality and whether hormonal methods mediate the effects of heavy menstrual bleeding or other risk factors of anemia.

Efficacy of oral levonorgestrel emergency contraception with same day etonogestrel contraceptive implant: A prospective observational study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine a 1-month pregnancy rate point estimate and 95% confidence interval for guideline-supported, same-day initiation of an etonogestrel implant plus oral levonorgestrel emergency contraception. STUDY DESIGN: In this single-arm, prospective observational study, all emergency contraception clients who presented to four Planned Parenthood Association of Utah clinics from February 2021 to March 2023 received information about oral levonorgestrel with same-day etonogestrel implant insertion. Participants were ≤35 years and reported unprotected intercourse within 5 days with negative pregnancy testing. The primary outcome measure was a 1-month home pregnancy test. We calculated the efficacy using a test of proportions with Yates continuity correction. RESULTS: A total of 160 emergency contraception clients (7.6% of 2106 approached) enrolled and 153 had 1-month pregnancy outcomes. A positive pregnancy test occurred in 2 participants resulting in an overall pregnancy rate of 1.32% (95% confidence interval 0.23%-5.19%). Ultrasound gestational dating assigned conception of the first pregnancy to 8 days before enrollment. For the second pregnancy, ultrasound dating designated conception at 5 days prior to enrollment. Limiting the efficacy rate to the single pregnancy that occurred within 5 days of unprotected intercourse, we report a pregnancy rate of 0.66% (95% confidence interval 0.03%-4.19%). CONCLUSIONS: In this observational study of emergency contraception clients selecting oral levonorgestrel with same-day etonogestrel implant, we identified a pregnancy rate within the established range of oral emergency contraception methods alone. IMPLICATIONS: Clients presenting for emergency contraception may also desire ongoing highly-effective contraception, yet current clinical guidelines serve as a barrier to same-day method initiation for the etonogestrel implant and other hormonal methods. Improving access to contraceptive method initiation will reduce the ongoing risk of unwanted pregnancy for this population. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04678817; registered 12/16/20.

Characteristics and hormonal contraception use patterns of levonorgestrel 13.5 mg intrauterine device users in Sweden 2014-2016.

OBJECTIVES: The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device containing 13.5 mg of levonorgestrel (LNG 13.5 mg IUD), Jaydess, was approved for contraception by the European Medicines Agency in 2013. We aimed to describe the characteristics of new users of LNG 13.5 mg IUD in Sweden within the first 3 years after approval (2014-2016). STUDY DESIGN: We conducted an observational, population-based study using data from the Swedish national registers. Women with the first pharmacy dispensation of LNG 13.5 mg IUD between 2014 and 2016 were followed until December 31, 2020. Descriptive analyses included demographic characteristics, duration of the use of first-time LNG 13.5 mg IUD, and contraceptive switching patterns. RESULTS: We included 38,327 women, with mean age at first-time LNG 13.5 mg IUD use of 26 (SD: 7) years. Over 80% were prescribed LNG 13.5 mg IUD by a midwife. The most common comorbidities in the year prior to LNG 13.5 mg IUD use (2%-3% prevalence) were depression, anxiety, premenstrual syndrome, and menorrhagia. The median duration of first-time LNG 13.5 mg IUD use was 2.6 years, and after use, more than 50% of women opted to continue using a hormonal intrauterine device. CONCLUSIONS: In this postmarketing drug utilization study, there were over 38,000 first-time LNG 13.5 mg IUD users in Sweden between 2014 and 2016, with an estimated median duration of use of 2.6 years. First-time LNG 13.5 mg IUD users consisted mostly of young, healthy individuals with a history of hormonal contraceptive use. Over half of the women continued using a hormonal IUD after the first LNG 13.5 mg IUD. IMPLICATIONS: The median duration of LNG 13.5 mg IUD use was 2.6 years, approaching the 3-year indicated use limit. The majority of users continued with another hormonal intrauterine device after LNG 13.5 mg IUD use.

Genital epithelial barrier function is conserved by intravaginal rings releasing etonogestrel and ethinyl estradiol.

The injectable progestin depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a popular contraceptive choice in sub-Saharan Africa although mouse models indicate it weakens genital epithelial integrity and barrier function and increases susceptibility to genital infection. The intravaginal ring NuvaRing® is another contraceptive option that like DMPA suppresses hypothalamic pituitary ovarian (HPO) axis function with local release of progestin (etonogestrel) and estrogen (ethinyl estradiol). As we previously reported that treating mice with DMPA and estrogen averts the loss of genital epithelial integrity and barrier function induced by DMPA alone, in the current investigation we compared genital levels of the cell-cell adhesion molecule desmoglein-1 (DSG1) and genital epithelial permeability in rhesus macaques (RM) treated with DMPA or a NuvaRing®re-sized for RM (N-IVR). While these studies demonstrated comparable inhibition of the HPO axis with DMPA or N-IVR, DMPA induced significantly lower genital DSG1 levels and greater tissue permeability to intravaginally administered low molecular mass molecules. By identifying greater compromise of genital epithelial integrity and barrier function in RM administered DMPA vs. N-IVR, our results add to the growing body of evidence that indicate DMPA weakens a fundamental mechanism of anti-pathogen host defense in the female genital tract.

Localization and removal of nonpalpable contraceptive implants: Experience from a teaching hospital in Ethiopia: A case series.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the outcome of women presenting with nonpalpable contraceptive implants to a referral center in Ethiopia. In addition, we discuss our approach and experience with localization and removal of nonpalpable contraceptive implants. METHODS: We conducted a facility-based retrospective review of patients evaluated for a nonpalpable contraceptive implant between September 2019 and March 2022 at St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC) located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. SPHMMC is a tertiary teaching hospital with Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) residency as well as a Family Planning fellowship program. The present study was approved by the institutional review board of SPHMMC. RESULTS: Of the 68 patients reviewed, 48 were referred from other facilities. A total of 24 (35.3%) patients had at least one previous failed attempt at removal before referral. On ultrasound examination, 27 (40.3%) implants were found below the muscle fascia. Implant removal procedures were successfully done at the outpatient clinic in 65 (95.6%) patients including 40/40 (100%) suprafascial and 25/27 (92.6%) subfascial implants. Removal of subfascial implants was performed in the operating room in two patients. We failed to localize the device in one patient currently on follow-up. All removals were performed by OBGYNs with subspecialty training in family planning or current fellows supervised by subspecialists. No post-procedure complications have been documented. CONCLUSION: Our findings show that with meticulous evaluation and careful patient selection, localization and removal of nonpalpable implants in outpatient settings are successful. Initial ultrasonography minimizes delays and allows for same-day implant localization and removal.

Single-Visit Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Initiation Among Adolescents Before and During COVID-19.

PURPOSE: Single-visit long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is cost-effective and convenient. Our objective was to compare incidence of single-visit LARC placement and associated factors during the year before the COVID-19 pandemic (March 15, 2020) and the first year of the pandemic. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study analyzed electronic health records from a large healthcare system. Eligible adolescents were aged 10-19 years and received outpatient LARC from March 15, 2019 to March 14, 2021. Logistic regression models determined the relationship of patient and provider characteristics on single-visit LARC before and during COVID-19. RESULTS: One thousand six adolescents initiated LARC during the study period. Fewer adolescents received single-visit LARC during COVID-19 (289/506, 57.1%) compared to before (315/500, 63.0%), although changes in odds of single-visit LARC were not statistically significant. Concordance between county of patient residence and the location of the LARC placement facility was associated with single-visit LARC before (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.75) and during (aOR = 1.74) the pandemic (both p < .05). During the pandemic, a few factors were associated with reduced odds of single-visit LARC: (1) public insurance (aOR = 0.49, p < .01), (2) nonobstetricians/nongynecologists providers (pediatrics [aOR = 0.35, p < .01], family medicine [aOR = 0.53, p < .01], or internal medicine [aOR = 0.14, p < .05]), and (3) advanced practice practitioners (aOR = 0.49, p < .01). DISCUSSION: Incidence of single-visit LARC was similar before and during the pandemic. Certain factors were associated with lower odds of single-visit LARC insertion, suggesting differential access during the pandemic for subgroups of adolescents. Our findings may guide policy and programmatic interventions to improve access to single-visit LARC for all adolescent populations.