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Ricker EA, Koltun KJ, de la Motte SJ. Hormonal contraception and medical readiness for female service members. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 231:386-394. [PMID: 38810770 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Many female military service members choose to use hormonal contraception to prevent pregnancy and/or to control or suppress menses. Hormonal contraception, which comes in many different forms based on dose, estrogen/progestin type, and route of administration (oral, vaginal, transdermal, implant, intrauterine device, injectable), may cause side effects, some of which can influence military medical readiness, or the health status necessary to perform assigned missions. This expert review summarizes the evidence around common military-relevant side effects of hormonal contraception that could impact readiness, including effects on weight and body composition, bone health, psychological health, and physical performance, and serves as a tool for uniformed and civilian clinicians counseling female service members about hormonal contraception. Current evidence suggests some hormonal contraception can lead to weight and fat gain, may modulate susceptibility to mood or mental health disorders, and could impact bone mineral density and stress fracture risk; more research is needed on physical performance effects. Clinicians must be familiar with readiness considerations of each type of hormonal contraception to provide comprehensive patient education and allow for optimal shared decision-making about hormonal contraception use among female Service members. Considering the relative lack of data on the effects of nonoral hormonal contraception routes on readiness outcomes and the growing interest in long-acting reversible contraceptives among female service members, future research should continue to investigate effects of all hormonal contraception methods available to service members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Ricker
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Kristen J Koltun
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Sarah J de la Motte
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD
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Grant AD, Kriegsfeld LJ. Continuous body temperature as a window into adolescent development. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2023; 60:101221. [PMID: 36821877 PMCID: PMC9981811 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2023.101221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Continuous body temperature is a rich source of information on hormonal status, biological rhythms, and metabolism, all of which undergo stereotyped change across adolescence. Due to the direct actions of these dynamic systems on body temperature regulation, continuous temperature may be uniquely suited to monitoring adolescent development and the impacts of exogenous reproductive hormones or peptides (e.g., hormonal contraception, puberty blockers, gender affirming hormone treatment). This mini-review outlines how traditional methods for monitoring the timing and tempo of puberty may be augmented by markers derived from continuous body temperature. These features may provide greater temporal precision, scalability, and reduce reliance on self-report, particularly in females. Continuous body temperature data can now be gathered with ease across a variety of wearable form factors, providing the opportunity to develop tools that aid in individual, parental, clinical, and researcher awareness and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azure D Grant
- Levels Health, Inc., New York City, NY 10003, United States
| | - Lance J Kriegsfeld
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States; Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States; Graduate Group in Endocrinology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States; The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States.
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Jin XX, Sun L, Lai XL, Li J, Liang ML, Ma X. Effect of Mirena placement on reproductive hormone levels at different time intervals after artificial abortion. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:511-517. [PMID: 35097076 PMCID: PMC8771403 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i2.511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improper methods of contraception greatly increase the risk of abortion, cervical or endometrial lesions, and the number of recurrent artificial abortions. These complications result in the deterioration of a patient’s outcome. Further, the proportion of artificial abortions is highest among unmarried females. Placement of an intrauterine device, such as the Mirena, after an artificial abortion may decrease the likelihood of an endometrial injury caused by recurrent abortions while significantly improving its contraceptive effects.
AIM To discuss the effect of Mirena placement on reproductive hormone levels at different time points after an artificial abortion.
METHODS Women (n = 119) undergoing an artificial abortion operation were divided into the study (n = 56) and control (n = 63) groups. In the study group, the Mirena was inserted immediately after the artificial abortion, whereas in the control group, it was inserted 4–7 d after the onset of the first menstrual cycle after abortion. All participants were followed-up for 6 mo to observe the continuation and expulsion rates and adverse reactions and to measure the levels of serum estradiol (E2), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH).
RESULTS The continuation rates were 94.64% and 93.65% in the study group and the control group, respectively. The expulsion rates were 1.79% and 3.17% in the study group and the control group, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). There were also no statistically significant differences in the proportion of patients with bacterial vaginitis, trichomonas vaginitis, or cervicitis between the groups (P > 0.05). Six months after Mirena placement, E2 Levels were 45.50 ± 7.13 pg/mL and 42.91 ± 8.10 pg/mL, FSH 13.60 ± 3.24 mIU/mL and 14.54 ± 3.11 mIU/mL, and LH 15.11 ± 2.08 mIU/mL and 14.60 ± 3.55 mIU/mL in the study and control groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in hormone levels between the two groups (P > 0.05). There were also no statistically significant differences in the proportions of abnormal menstruation, prolonged menstruation, or pain during intercourse between the study and control groups after Mirena placement (P > 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in uterine volume, sexual desire, sexual activity, or the sexual satisfaction score between the study and control groups before and after Mirena placement (P > 0.05).
CONCLUSION Placement of a Mirena intrauterine device immediately after an artificial abortion does not increase the risk of adverse reactions and can help prevent endometrial injury caused by recurrent abortions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xiao Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhejiang Taizhou Hospital, Taizhou 317000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ling Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhejiang Taizhou Hospital, Taizhou 317000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiao-Li Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhejiang Taizhou Hospital, Taizhou 317000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhejiang Taizhou Hospital, Taizhou 317000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mei-Li Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhejiang Taizhou Hospital, Taizhou 317000, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xia Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhejiang Taizhou Hospital, Taizhou 317000, Zhejiang Province, China
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Grant AD, Wilbrecht L, Kriegsfeld LJ. Adolescent Development of Biological Rhythms in Female Rats: Estradiol Dependence and Effects of Combined Contraceptives. Front Physiol 2021; 12:752363. [PMID: 35615288 PMCID: PMC9126190 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.752363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescence is a period of continuous development, including the maturation of endogenous rhythms across systems and timescales. Although, these dynamic changes are well-recognized, their continuous structure and hormonal dependence have not been systematically characterized. Given the well-established link between core body temperature (CBT) and reproductive hormones in adults, we hypothesized that high-resolution CBT can be applied to passively monitor pubertal development and disruption with high fidelity. To examine this possibility, we used signal processing to investigate the trajectory of CBT rhythms at the within-day (ultradian), daily (circadian), and ovulatory timescales, their dependence on estradiol (E2), and the effects of hormonal contraceptives. Puberty onset was marked by a rise in fecal estradiol (fE2), followed by an elevation in CBT and circadian power. This time period marked the commencement of 4-day rhythmicity in fE2, CBT, and ultradian power marking the onset of the estrous cycle. The rise in circadian amplitude was accelerated by E2 treatment, indicating a role for this hormone in rhythmic development. Contraceptive administration in later adolescence reduced CBT and circadian power and resulted in disruption to 4-day cycles that persisted after discontinuation. Our data reveal with precise temporal resolution how biological rhythms change across adolescence and demonstrate a role for E2 in the emergence and preservation of multiscale rhythmicity. These findings also demonstrate how hormones delivered exogenously in a non-rhythmic pattern can disrupt rhythmic development. These data lay the groundwork for a future in which temperature metrics provide an inexpensive, convenient method for monitoring pubertal maturation and support the development of hormone therapies that better mimic and support human chronobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azure D. Grant
- The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Linda Wilbrecht
- The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Lance J. Kriegsfeld
- The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Graduate Group in Endocrinology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
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Rocca ML, Palumbo AR, Visconti F, Di Carlo C. Safety and Benefits of Contraceptives Implants: A Systematic Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:548. [PMID: 34201123 PMCID: PMC8229462 DOI: 10.3390/ph14060548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Progestin-only contraceptive implants provide long-acting, highly effective reversible contraception. We searched the medical publications in PubMed, CENTRAL, and EMBASE for relevant articles on hormonal implants published in English between 1990 and 2021. Levonorgestrel (LNG) 6-capsule subdermal implants represented the first effective system approved for reversible contraception. The etonogestrel (ENG) single rod dispositive has been widely employed in clinical practice, since it is a highly effective and safe contraceptive method. Abnormal menstrual bleeding is a common ENG side effect, representing the main reason for its premature discontinuation. Emerging evidence demonstrated that it is possible to extend the use of the ENG implant beyond the three-year period for which it is approved. The ENG implant could be an effective and discrete alternative to the IUD in young girls, such as post-partum/post-abortion. Implants should be inserted by trained skilled clinicians who previously provide adequate counselling about their contraceptive effect, benefits, and any possible adverse events. More studies are needed to validate the extended use of the ENG implant for up to 5 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morena Luigia Rocca
- Operative Unit of Obstetric and Gynaecology, Pugliese-Ciaccio Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Palumbo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, “Magna Graecia” University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.R.P.); (F.V.); (C.D.C.)
| | - Federica Visconti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, “Magna Graecia” University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.R.P.); (F.V.); (C.D.C.)
| | - Costantino Di Carlo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, “Magna Graecia” University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.R.P.); (F.V.); (C.D.C.)
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Beksinska M, Issema R, Beesham I, Lalbahadur T, Thomas K, Morrison C, Hofmeyr G, Steyn PS, Mugo N, Palanee-Phillips T, Ahmed K, Nair G, Baeten JM, Smit J. Weight change among women using intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, a copper intrauterine device, or a levonorgestrel implant for contraception: Findings from a randomised, multicentre, open-label trial. EClinicalMedicine 2021; 34:100800. [PMID: 33898953 PMCID: PMC8056402 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.100800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited evidence on the impact of the use of progestin-only hormonal contraception (POC) on weight change. We conducted a secondary analysis of prospective weight change among women enrolled in the Evidence for Contraceptive options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) trial. METHODS The ECHO trial was conducted at 12 sites in eSwatini, Kenya, South Africa and Zambia between December 2015 and October 2018. HIV negative, women aged 16-35 years, desiring contraception, were randomised (1:1:1) to either 3-monthly intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), levonorgestrel (LNG) implant or copper intrauterine device (IUD). Follow-up was up to 18 months. Weight (kg) was measured at baseline and study exit. Analysis was performed as intention to treat (ITT) and time on continuous contraceptive use. The primary outcome of this secondary analysis is weight change from study enrolment to the final visit at study month 12-18. The ECHO trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02550067. FINDINGS 7829 women were randomly assigned to DMPA-IM (n = 2609), copper IUD (n = 2607) or LNG implant (n = 2613). The ITT population included 7014 women 2293 DMPA-IM group, 2372 copper IUD group and 2349 LNG group) who were not lost to follow-up, pregnant on study, or missing weight data. The mean weight increased in all groups but was significantly different in magnitude: 3.5 kg (SD = 6.3), 2.4 kg (SD = 5.9) and 1.5 kg (SD = 5.7) in the DMPA-IM, LNG implant and copper IUD groups, respectively. Comparative differences between groups were (2.02 kg (95% CI, 1.68, 2.36, p < 0.001) for DMPA-IM versus copper IUD, 0.87 kg (0.53,1.20 p < 0.001) for LNG implant compared to copper IUD and 1.16 kg (0.82, 1.50, p < 0.001) for DMPA-IM compared with LNG implant. Results for continuous contraceptive use were similar. INTERPRETATION We found differences in weight gain between POC users compared to the non-hormonal copper IUD group over 12-18 months of use. Women using POCs should be counselled about this potential side effect when choosing a contraceptive method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mags Beksinska
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Rodal Issema
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, United States
| | - Ivana Beesham
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tharnija Lalbahadur
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Katherine Thomas
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, United States
| | | | - G.Justus Hofmeyr
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Walter Sisulu University, East London, South Africa; University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswan
| | - Petrus S. Steyn
- UNDP-UNFPA-UNICEF-WHO-World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, United States
- Center for Clinical Research (CCR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Kenya
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- University of the Witwatersrand, Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Khatija Ahmed
- Setshaba Research Centre, Soshanguve, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Pretoria
| | | | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98104, United States
| | - Jenni Smit
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
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