Bone mineral density in women aged 25–35 years receiving depot medroxyprogesterone acetate: recovery following discontinuation

Hormonal therapies in females with blood disorders: thrombophilia, thrombosis, hemoglobinopathies, and anemias

There is widespread use of gonadal steroid hormone therapy for a variety of indications throughout the reproductive and postreproductive lifespan. These therapies may have particular benefits and specific risk among those with blood disorders, including inherited or acquired bleeding disorders, thrombophilia, thrombosis, or anemia. This clinical review is intended to provide a guidance for counseling and management of adolescent and adult biologic females with thrombophilic risk factors and/or thrombosis who require hormonal therapy. In general, synthetic estrogens present in contraceptive products should be avoided in those with a personal or strong family history of thrombosis or thrombophilias. In contrast, natural estrogens present in formulations for climacteric symptom management do not need to be avoided, and vaginal or transdermal formulations are preferred. Likewise, transdermal estradiol is preferred for gender-affirming hormone therapy and requires individualized assessment in those at high risk of thrombosis. Progestogens (either synthetic progestins or naturally occurring progesterone) can be used safely in nearly all patients. There is minimal safety evidence among anticoagulated patients at risk for thrombosis, which requires a patient-specific approach when discussing hormone therapies.

Hormonal contraceptive use, bone density and biochemical markers of bone metabolism in British Army recruits

INTRODUCTION

Hormonal contraceptive use might impair bone health and increase the risk of stress fracture by decreasing endogenous oestrogen production, a central regulator of bone metabolism. This cross-sectional study investigated bone density and biochemical markers of bone metabolism in women taking hormonal contraceptives on entry to basic military training.

METHODS

Forty-five female British Army recruits had biochemical markers of bone metabolism, areal bone mineral density (aBMD) and tibial speed of sound (tSOS) measured at the start of basic military training. Participants were compared by their method of hormonal contraception: no hormonal contraception (NONE), combined contraceptive pill (CP) or depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) (20±2.8 years, 1.64±0.63 m, 61.7±6.2 kg).

RESULTS

aBMD was not different between groups (p≥0.204), but tSOS was higher in NONE (3%, p=0.014) when compared with DMPA users. Beta C-terminal telopeptide was higher in NONE (45%, p=0.037) and DMPA users (90%, p=0.003) compared with CP users. Procollagen type 1 N-terminal propeptide was higher in DMPA users compared with NONE (43%, p=0.045) and CP users (127%, p=0.001), and higher in NONE compared with CP users (59%, p=0.014). Bone alkaline phosphatase was higher in DMPA users compared with CP users (56%, p=0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

DMPA use was associated with increased bone turnover and decreased cortical bone integrity of the tibia. Lower cortical bone integrity in DMPA users was possibly mediated by increased intracortical remodelling, but trabecular bone was not affected by contraceptive use.

Bone health and hormonal contraception

INTRODUCTION

Short-term and long-term steroid contraceptive systems are widely employed in adolescents and premenopausal women; they could induce variation in bone metabolism, but whether these changes increase the overall fracture risk is not yet clear.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic search of scientific publications about "hormonal contraceptives" and "bone metabolism" in reproductive age women was conducted.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

In adolescent girl, combined oral contraceptives could have a deleterious effect on bone health when their onset is within three years after menarche and when they contain ethinyl estradiol at the dose of 20 mcg. In perimenopausal women, steroid contraceptives seem not influence bone health nor increase osteoporotic fractures risk in menopause. The oral progestogens intake is not related to negative effects on skeletal health. Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) induce a prolonged hypoestrogenism with secondary detrimental effect on healthy bone; the higher bone loss was observed at the DMPA dose of 150 mg intramuscular such as after long-term DMPA-users. Progestin-based implants and intrauterine devices have not negative effect on bone health.

CONCLUSIONS

Since sex-steroid drugs induce variations in hormonal circulating concentrations, they may negatively affect bone metabolism. Contraceptive choice should be tailored evaluating any possible effect on bone health. Clinicians should always perform a precontraceptive counselling to identify any coexisting condition that may affect bone health. Further randomized studies are needed to confirm these results.

Bone Mineral Density Changes Associated With Pregnancy, Lactation, and Medical Treatments in Premenopausal Women and Effects Later in Life

Bone mineral density (BMD) changes during the life span, increasing rapidly during adolescence, plateauing in the third decade of life, and subsequently entering a phase of age-related decline. In women, menopause leads to accelerated bone loss and an increase in fracture risk. Between peak bone mass attainment and menopause, BMD is generally stable and the risk of fracture is typically low. This time period is marked by life events such as pregnancy and lactation, which transiently decrease BMD, yet their long-term effects on fracture risk are less certain. BMD may also be altered by exposure to medications that affect bone metabolism (e.g., contraceptives, glucocorticoids, antidiabetic medications, antiepileptic drugs). Although oral contraceptives are often believed to be neutral with regard to bone health, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists have been associated with decreases in BMD. Development of newer medical therapies, principally GnRH antagonists (e.g., ASP1707, elagolix, linzagolix, relugolix), for treatment of endometriosis-associated pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding due to uterine fibroids has renewed interest in the short- and long-term impacts of changes in BMD experienced by premenopausal women. It is important to understand how these drugs influence BMD and put the findings into context with regard to measurement variability and naturally occurring factors that influence bone health. This review summarizes what is known about the effects on bone health pregnancy, lactation, and use of DMPA, GnRH agonists, and GnRH antagonists in premenopausal women and potential consequences later in life. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03213457.

Bone Mineral Density in Antiretroviral Therapy-Naïve HIV-1-Infected Young Adult -Women Using Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate or Nonhormonal Contraceptives in Uganda

Most studies evaluating BMD in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected populations have focused on antiretroviral therapy (ART)‐experienced patients. In this study, the association between HIV‐1 and/or depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) and BMD among untreated HIV‐1–infected women in a resource‐limited setting was assessed before long‐term exposure to ART. The data were then compared with that of the 2005–2008 United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data for non‐Hispanic White and Black women. Women aged 18–35 years, recruited from health facilities in Kampala, Uganda, were classified based on their combination of HIV‐1 status and DMPA use: (i) HIV‐1–infected current DMPA users, (ii) HIV‐1–infected previous DMPA users, (iii) HIV‐1–infected nonhormonal‐contraceptive users, and (iv) HIV‐uninfected nonhormonal‐contraceptive users. All HIV‐1–infected women reported being ART‐naïve at baseline. BMD was measured at the lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck using DXA. Multivariate linear regression was used to assess the association between HIV‐1 and/or DMPA and BMD Z‐scores. Baseline data were analyzed for 452 HIV‐1–infected (220 nonhormonal users, and 177 current and 55 previous DMPA users) and 69 HIV‐1–uninfected nonhormonal‐contraceptive users. The mean age was 26.1 years (SD, 4.2) with a median duration of DMPA use among current users of 24.0 months [medians (interquartile range), 12‐48]. A higher proportion of HIV‐1–infected previous (12.7%) or current DMPA users (20.3%) and nonhormonal users (15.0%) had low BMD (Z‐score ≤−2 at any of the three sites) compared with age‐matched HIV‐1–uninfected women (2.9%). HIV‐1 infection and DMPA use were independently associated with significantly lower mean BMD Z‐scores at all sites, with the greatest difference being among HIV‐1–infected current DMPA users (5.6%–8.0%) versus uninfected nonhormonal users. Compared with non‐Hispanic White and Black women, the Ugandan local reference population had generally lower mean BMD at all sites. Newer treatment interventions are needed to mitigate BMD loss in HIV‐1–infected women in resource‐limited settings. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Changes in calcium metabolism and bone mineral density in new users of medroxyprogesterone acetate during the first year of use

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate calcium metabolism and bone mineral density (BMD) in new users of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) in the first year of use.

METHODS

This prospective, non-randomized study, conducted at the University of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, was carried out between February 2011 and February 2013. Women aged from 18 to 40 with a body mass index (BMI, calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters) <30 and with no known history of disease or medication use who chose to use DMPA were paired by age (±1 year) and BMI (±1) with women commencing the use of a copper intrauterine device (IUD). The primary outcomes were BMD measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and calcium metabolism markers; other variables were body composition and lifestyle habits. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple regression analyses were used to evaluate associations.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven women using DMPA and 24 using IUD were evaluated, with a mean age of 29.7 years and 28.6 years, respectively. The DMPA group presented with a 3.6% (P<0.001) loss of lumbar spine BMD, a 2.1% (P=0.100) loss of femoral neck BMD and higher phosphorus (P=0.014) concentrations at 12 months compared to the IUD group. The decreases in BMD were associated with the use of DMPA, while total mass and coffee intake were found to be protective factors.

CONCLUSION

Changes in calcium metabolism and a decrease in BMD were found in the DMPA group at 12 months.

Causes of low peak bone mass in women

Peak bone mass is the maximum bone mass that accrues during growth and development. Consolidation of peak bone mass normally occurs during early adulthood. Low peak bone mass results from failure to achieve peak bone mass genetic potential, primarily due to bone loss caused by a variety of conditions or processes occurring at younger ages than usual. Recognized causes of low peak bone mass include genetic causes, endocrine disorders, nutritional disorders, chronic diseases of childhood or adolescence, medications, and idiopathic factors.

Adverse bone effects of medications used to treat non-skeletal disorders

There is a growing list of medications used to treat non-skeletal disorders that cause bone loss and/or increase fracture risk. This review discusses glucocorticoids, drugs that reduce sex steroids, antidiabetic agents, acid-reducing drugs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and heparin. A number of drugs are known to cause bone loss, increase fracture risk, or both. These drugs should be used in the lowest dose necessary to achieve the desired benefit and for the shortest time necessary, but in many cases, long-term treatment is required. Effective countermeasures are available for some.

Premenopausal Osteoporosis

Most premenopausal women with low trauma fracture(s) or low bone mineral density have a secondary cause of osteoporosis or bone loss. Where possible, treatment of the underlying cause should be the focus of management. Premenopausal women with an ongoing cause of bone loss and those who have had, or continue to have, low trauma fractures may require pharmacologic intervention. Clinical trials provide evidence of benefits of bisphosphonates and teriparatide for bone mineral density in several types of premenopausal osteoporosis, but studies are small and do not provide evidence regarding fracture risk reduction.

The impact of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate on fracture risk: a case-control study from the UK

There has been concerning about women receiving depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) contraception because of the prolonged hypoestrogenemic state regarding the potential negative effects on bone health. This study showed that DMPA exposure is associated with increased fracture risk and that fracture risk increases with longer DMPA exposure.

INTRODUCTION

DMPA has been associated with impaired bone mineral acquisition during adolescence and accelerated bone loss in later life. We performed this large population-based study to assess the association between use of DMPA or combined oral contraceptives and the incident risk of fracture.

METHODS

We identified 4189 women between 20 and 44 years of age with a first-time fracture diagnosis, matched them with 4189 random controls using the Disease Analyzer database and investigated the relation with DMPA exposure.

RESULTS

Overall, 11 % of the fracture cases and 7.7 % of the controls had DMPA use recorded. The adjusted OR for developing a fracture in patients with current use of DMPA compared to non-users was 0.97 (95 % CI 0.51-1.86), 2.41 (95 % CI 1.42-4.08), and 1.46 (95 % CI 0.96-2.23) for 1-2, 3-9, and ≥10 prescriptions, respectively. The adjusted OR for developing a fracture in patients with past use of DMPA compared to non-users was 0.96 (95 % CI 0.73-1.26), 1.14 (95 % CI 0.86-1.51), and 1.55 (95 % CI 1.07-2.27) for 1-2, 3-9, and ≥10 prescriptions, respectively. The highest fracture risk was identified in young patients less than 30 years with longer DMPA exposure (≥10 prescriptions; OR 3.04, 95 % CI 1.36-6.81), as well as in patients in the late reproductive years with past use of DMPA (OR 1.72, 95 % CI 1.13-2.63).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that DMPA exposure is associated with increased fracture risk and may have negative effects on bone metabolism, resulting in impaired bone mineral acquisition during adolescence and accelerated bone loss in adult life.

Canadian Contraception Consensus (Part 3 of 4): Chapter 8 - Progestin-Only Contraception

OBJECTIVE

To provide guidelines for health care providers on the use of contraceptive methods to prevent pregnancy and on the promotion of healthy sexuality.

OUTCOMES

Overall efficacy of cited contraceptive methods, assessing reduction in pregnancy rate, safety, ease of use, and side effects; the effect of cited contraceptive methods on sexual health and general well-being; and the relative cost and availability of cited contraceptive methods in Canada.

EVIDENCE

Published literature was retrieved through searches of Medline and The Cochrane Database from January 1994 to January 2015 using appropriate controlled vocabulary (e.g., contraception, sexuality, sexual health) and key words (e.g., contraception, family planning, hormonal contraception, emergency contraception). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, and observational studies published in English from January 1994 to January 2015. Searches were updated on a regular basis in incorporated in the guideline to June 2015. Grey (unpublished) literature was identified through searching the websites of health technology assessment and health technology-related agencies, clinical practice guideline collections, clinical trial registries, and national and international medical specialty societies.

VALUES

The quality of the evidence in this document was rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (Table 1). CHAPTER 8: PROGESTIN-ONLY CONTRACEPTION: Summary Statements Recommendations.

Monthly Periods--Are They Necessary?

Menstrual suppression--the use of hormones to delay or eliminate menses--is often used in adolescents to manage conditions associated with the menstrual cycle and to accommodate lifestyle preferences. Reducing the frequency of menstrual bleeding does not cause any known physiologic harm and has potential short-term and long-term advantages. Different methods used for menstrual suppression, however, have associated risks and side effects that need to be weighed against the benefits of controlling menses. This article reviews the advantages and disadvantages of menstrual suppression and the different methods available for adolescents.

Steroidal contraceptives and bone fractures in women: evidence from observational studies

BACKGROUND

Age-related decline in bone mass increases the risk of skeletal fractures, especially those of the hip, spine, and wrist. Steroidal contraceptives have been associated with changes in bone mineral density in women. Whether such changes affect the risk of fractures later in life is unclear. Hormonal contraceptives are among the most effective and most widely-used contraceptives. Concern about fractures may limit the use of these effective contraceptives. Observational studies can collect data on premenopausal contraceptive use as well as fracture incidence later in life.

OBJECTIVES

We systematically reviewed the evidence from observational studies of hormonal contraceptive use for contraception and the risk of fracture in women.

SEARCH METHODS

Through June 2015, we searched for observational studies. The databases included PubMed, POPLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), LILACS, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science. We also searched for recent clinical trials through ClinicalTrials.gov and the ICTRP. For other studies, we examined reference lists of relevant articles and wrote to investigators for additional reports.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included cohort and case-control studies of hormonal contraceptive use. Interventions included comparisons of a hormonal contraceptive with a non-hormonal contraceptive, no contraceptive, or another hormonal contraceptive. The primary outcome was the risk of fracture.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently extracted the data. One author entered the data into RevMan, and a second author verified accuracy. We examined the quality of evidence using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS), developed for case-control and cohort studies. Sensitivity analysis included studies of moderate or high quality based on our assessment with the NOS.Given the need to control for confounding factors in observational studies, we used adjusted estimates from the models as reported by the authors. Where we did not have adjusted analyses, we calculated the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Due to varied study designs, we did not conduct meta-analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 14 studies (7 case-control and 7 cohort studies). These examined oral contraceptives (OCs), depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), and the hormonal intrauterine device (IUD). This section focuses on the sensitivity analysis with six studies that provided moderate or high quality evidence.All six studies examined oral contraceptive use. We noted few associations with fracture risk. One cohort study reported OC ever-users had increased risk for all fractures (RR 1.20, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.34). However, a case-control study with later data from a subset reported no association except for those with 10 years or more since use (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.33). Another case-control study reported increased risk only for those who had 10 or more prescriptions (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.16). A cohort study of postmenopausal women found no increased fracture risk for OC use after excluding women with prior fracture. Two other studies found little evidence of association between OC use and fracture risk. A cohort study noted increased risk for subgroups, such as those with longer use or specific intervals since use. A case-control study reported increased risk for any fracture only among young women with less than average use.Two case-control studies also examined progestin-only contraceptives. One reported increased fracture risk for DMPA ever-use (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.06), more than four years of use (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.32 to 3.53), and women over 50 years old. The other reported increased risk for any past use, including one or two prescriptions (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.29) and for current use of 3 to 9 prescriptions (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.60) or 10 or more (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.33 to 1.78). For the levonorgestrel-releasing IUD, one study reported reduced fracture risk for ever-use (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.87) and for longer use.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Observational studies do not indicate an overall association between oral contraceptive use and fracture risk. Some reported increased risk for specific user subgroups. DMPA users may have an increased fracture risk. One study indicated hormonal IUD use may be associated with decreased risk. Observational studies need adjusted analysis because the comparison groups usually differ. Investigators should be clear about the variables examined in multivariate analysis.

Survey of risk factors for osteoporosis and osteoprotective behaviors among patients with epilepsy

The prevalence of risk factors for osteoporosis in persons with epilepsy, patients' awareness of their risk, and their engagement in osteoprotective behaviors were assessed in this study. Two hundred and sixty patients with epilepsy (F=51.5%, average age=42) completed a survey tool. Of 106 patients with a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) result, 52% had low bone mineral density, and 11% had osteoporosis. The results suggest that the majority of patients with epilepsy do not engage in bone-protective behaviors. Those who have undergone a DXA scan may be more likely to take calcium and vitamin D supplementation compared with those who did not undergo a DXA scan, but they do not engage in other osteoprotective behaviors. Many patients did not accurately report their DXA results, indicating that better patient education is warranted.

Factors associated with bone mineral density in healthy African women

There is a paucity of normative bone mineral density (BMD) data in healthy African women. Baseline total hip and lumbar spine BMD was measured in premenopausal women. BMD distribution was comparable to that of a reference population and was impacted by several factors including contraception and duration of lactation.

INTRODUCTION

Normative data on bone mineral density (BMD) and the cumulative impact of lactation, contraceptive use, and other factors on BMD in healthy African women have not been well studied.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to determine the factors associated with BMD in healthy premenopausal women in Uganda and Zimbabwe.

METHODS

Baseline total hip (TH) and lumbar spine (LS) BMD was measured by dual x-ray absorptiometry in 518 healthy, premenopausal black women enrolling in VOICE, an HIV-1 chemoprevention trial, at sites in Uganda and Zimbabwe. Contraceptive and lactation histories, physical activity assessment, calcium intake, and serum vitamin D levels were assessed. Independent factors associated with BMD were identified using an analysis of covariance model.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 331 women from Zimbabwe and 187 women from Uganda. Median age was 29 years (IQR 25, 32) and median body mass index (BMI) was 24.8 kg/m(2) (IQR 22.2, 28.6). In univariate analyses, lower TH BMD values were associated with residence in Uganda (p < 0.001), lower BMI (p < 0.001), and any use of and duration of depot-medroxyprogresterone acetate. Use of oral contraceptives, progestin-only implants, and higher physical activity levels were protective against reduced BMD. Similarly, lower LS BMD values were associated with these same factors but also higher parity and history of breastfeeding. In a multivariable analysis, lower TH and LS BMD values were associated with enrollment in Uganda, lower BMI, and lower physical activity level; contraceptive use was associated with lower spine BMD, and breastfeeding contributed to lower total hip BMD.

CONCLUSIONS

Among healthy premenopausal women, TH and LS BMD was higher in Zimbabwe than Uganda. Additional factors independently associated with BMD included BMI, physical activity level, contraceptive use, and lactation.

Medication-induced osteoporosis: screening and treatment strategies

Drug-induced osteoporosis is a significant health problem and many physicians are unaware that many commonly prescribed medications contribute to significant bone loss and fractures. In addition to glucocorticoids, proton pump inhibitors, selective serotonin receptor inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, anticonvulsants, medroxyprogesterone acetate, aromatase inhibitors, androgen deprivation therapy, heparin, calcineurin inhibitors, and some chemotherapies have deleterious effects on bone health. Furthermore, many patients are treated with combinations of these medications, possibly compounding the harmful effects of these drugs. Increasing physician awareness of these side effects will allow for monitoring of bone health and therapeutic interventions to prevent or treat drug-induced osteoporosis.

Elagolix, an oral GnRH antagonist, versus subcutaneous depot medroxyprogesterone acetate for the treatment of endometriosis: effects on bone mineral density

This randomized double-blind study, with 24-week treatment and 24-week posttreatment periods, evaluated the effects of elagolix (150 mg every day, 75 mg twice a day) versus subcutaneous depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-SC) on bone mineral density (BMD), in women with endometriosis-associated pain (n = 252). All treatments induced minimal mean changes from baseline in BMD at week 24 (elagolix 150 mg: -0.11%/-0.47%, elagolix 75 mg: -1.29%/-1.2%, and DMPA-SC: 0.99%/-1.29% in the spine and total hip, respectively), with similar or less changes at week 48 (posttreatment). Elagolix was associated with improvements in endometriosis-associated pain, assessed with composite pelvic signs and symptoms score (CPSSS) and visual analogue scale, including statistical noninferiority to DMPA-SC in dysmenorrhea and nonmenstrual pelvic pain components of the CPSSS. The most common adverse events (AEs) in elagolix groups were headache, nausea, and nasopharyngitis, whereas the most common AEs in the DMPA-SC group were headache, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection, and mood swings. This study showed that similar to DMPA-SC, elagolix treatment had minimal impact on BMD over a 24-week period and demonstrated similar efficacy on endometriosis-associated pain.

Effect of injectable and oral contraceptives on glucose and insulin levels

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the effect of using two methods of hormonal contraceptives (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate) or an oral contraceptive pill (OCP) containing 20 micrograms ethinyl estradiol and 0.15 mg desogestrel) on serum glucose and insulin levels, as well as predictors of any observed changes.

METHODS

Fasting glucose and insulin levels were measured on 703 white, African-American, and Hispanic women using depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, OCPs, or nonhormonal birth control at baseline and every 6 months thereafter for 3 years. Participants also completed questionnaires containing demographic and behavioral measures every 6 months. Mixed-model regression analyses were used to estimate changes over time in glucose and insulin levels by method, along with their predictors.

RESULTS

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, but not OCP, users experienced slightly greater increases in glucose and insulin as compared with nonhormonal users (P<.001). Among depot medroxyprogesterone acetate users, a small but steady increase in serum glucose levels (2 mg/dL at 6 months to 3 mg/dL at 30 months) was observed throughout the first 30 months, but it leveled off after that. In contrast, serum insulin levels showed an upward (3 units at 6 months to 4 units at 18 months) trend for the first 18 months of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate use and then remained almost flat thereafter. Elevation of insulin and glucose levels was slightly more pronounced in obese and overweight depot medroxyprogesterone acetate users than those who were normal weight.

CONCLUSION

Use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, but not very-low-dose OCPs containing desogestrel, can lead to slightly higher fasting glucose and insulin levels.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

A pilot study examining short-term changes in bone mineral density among class 3 obese users of depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate

OBJECTIVE

To examine changes in lumbar spine-bone mineral density (LS-BMD) among normal weight (body mass index [BMI] = 18.5-24.9 kg/m(2)), Class 1-2 obese (BMI = 30-39.9 kg/m(2)), and Class 3 obese (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m(2)) women utilising depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA).

METHODS

Five normal-weight, five Class 1-2 obese, and five Class 3 obese women received subcutaneous injections of DMPA-SC at baseline and 12 weeks later. Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scans were performed at baseline and 18 weeks after the first injection for determination of LS-BMD and analysis of fat content. Bimonthly oestradiol (E2) levels were measured by immunoassay methods for 26 weeks.

RESULTS

There were no significant demographic or LS-BMD differences among the three BMI groups. Significant differences at baseline were as expected among the three groups with respect to BMI and associated parameters (mean % total body fat, absolute fat, and weight). When used as their own controls, significant changes in LS-BMD, % body fat and absolute fat determined by DEXA occurred among all three BMI strata. Class 1-2 obese and Class 3 obese women were more likely to experience E2 fluctuations, but short-term changes in LS-BMD were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

DMPA-SC administration affects L-spine bone health similarly regardless of BMI status.

Unrecognized and unappreciated secondary causes of osteoporosis

There are a substantial number of secondary causes of osteoporosis that can be identified through appropriate evaluation. Unrecognized celiac disease, Monoclonal gamopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), impaired renal function, diabetes mellitus, and renal tubular acidosis are just a few of the more common secondary causes of osteoporosis. Through targeted laboratory tests, many secondary causes of osteoporosis can be identified.

Steroidal contraceptives and bone fractures in women: evidence from observational studies

BACKGROUND

Age-related decline in bone mass increases the risk of skeletal fractures, especially those of the hip, spine, and wrist. Steroidal contraceptives have been associated with changes in bone mineral density in women. Whether such changes affect the risk of fractures later in life is unclear. Hormonal contraceptives are among the most effective and most widely-used contraceptives. Concern about fractures may limit the use of these effective contraceptives. Observational studies can collect data on premenopausal contraceptive use as well as fracture incidence later in life.

OBJECTIVES

We systematically reviewed the evidence from observational studies of hormonal contraceptive use for contraception and the risk of fracture in women.

SEARCH METHODS

In May 2012, we searched for observational studies. The databases included MEDLINE, POPLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), LILACS, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science. We also searched for recent clinical trials through ClinicalTrials.gov and the ICTRP. For other studies, we examined reference lists of relevant articles and wrote to investigators for additional reports.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included cohort and case-control studies of hormonal contraceptive use. Interventions included comparisons of a hormonal contraceptive with a nonhormonal contraceptive, no contraceptive, or another hormonal contraceptive. The primary outcome was the risk of fracture.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently extracted the data. One author entered the data into RevMan, and a second author verified accuracy. We examined the quality of evidence using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS), developed for case-control and cohort studies. Sensitivity analysis included studies of moderate or high quality based on our assessment with the NOS.Given the need to control for confounding factors in observational studies, we used adjusted estimates from the models as reported by the authors. Where we did not have adjusted analyses, we calculated the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Due to varied study designs, we did not conduct meta-analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 14 studies (7 case-control and 7 cohort studies). These examined oral contraceptives (OCs) (N=12), depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) (N=4), and the hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) (N=1). This section focuses on evidence from the six studies with moderate or high quality evidence that we included in the sensitivity analysis.All six studies examined oral contraceptive use. We noted few associations with fracture risk. One cohort study found OC ever-users had increased risk for all fractures (reported RR 1.20; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.34). However, a case-control study with later data from a subset reported no association except for those with 10 years or more since use (reported OR 1.55; 95% CI 1.03 to 2.33). Another case-control study reported increased risk only for those who had 10 or more prescriptions (reported OR 1.09; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.16). A cohort study of postmenopausal women found no increased fracture risk for OC use after excluding women with prior fracture. Two other studies found little evidence of association between OC use and fracture risk. A cohort study noted increased risk for subgroups, such as those with longer use or specific intervals since use. A case-control study reported increased risk for any fracture only among young women with less than average use.Two case-control studies in the sensitivity analysis also examined progestin-only contraceptives. One reported increased fracture risk for DMPA ever-use (reported OR 1.44 (95% CI 1.01 to 2.06), more than four years of use (reported OR 2.16; 95% CI 1.32 to 3.53), and women over 50 years old. The other noted increased risk for any past use, including one or two prescriptions (reported OR 1.17; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.29), and for current use of 3 to 9 or 10 or more prescriptions. In addition, one study reported reduced fracture risk for ever-use of the hormonal IUD (reported OR 0.75; 95% CI 0.64 to 0.87) and longer use of that IUD.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Observational studies do not indicate an overall association between OC use and fracture risk. Some reported increased risk for specific user subgroups. DMPA users may have an increased fracture risk. One study indicated hormonal IUD use may be associated with decreased risk. Observational studies need adjusted analysis because the comparison groups usually differ. Researchers should be clear about the variables examined in multivariate analysis.

The effect of hormonal oral contraception on acquisition of peak bone mineral density of adolescents and young women

Maximizing bone mass in youth is touted as the best strategy to offset the natural losses of aging and the menopausal transition. Not achieving maximum peak bone mineral density (BMD) is an independent risk factor for osteoporosis and thus a public health concern. Adolescence is a critical time of bone mineralization mediated by endogenous estradiol. Research has shown that the highest velocity of bone mass accrual occurs 1 year before menarche and after the first 3 years. Low-peak attainment of BMD in young women is associated with contributing factors such as diets low in calcium, eating disorders, lack of exercise, smoking, and low estrogen states. Oral contraceptives (OCs) suppress endogenous estradiol production by suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Thus, OCs, by replacing endogenous estradiol with ethinyl estradiol (EE), establish and maintain new hormone levels. The early initiation and the use of very low dose of EE raises the possibility that bone mass accrual at a critical time of bone mineralization in young women or adolescents may be jeopardized. This review examines the studies of BMD in adolescents and young women that use combination hormonal contraception. Some studies had inherent limitations, such as small trial, poor control of confounders, failure to exclude women with prior use of hormonal contraceptives, or prior pregnancy from control groups. The vast majority of reviewed studies showed OCs containing 20 to 30 µg of EE interfere with acquisition of peak BMD. Limited numbers of studies examine the effects of OCs containing 35 µg on adolescents and young adults. Additionally, studies are needed evaluating the progestin component of OCs as their differing androgenic properties may affect bone mineralization as well.

Effects of hypogonadism on bone metabolism in female adolescents and young adults

Gonadal steroids, including androgens and oestrogens, play a critical part in bone metabolism, and conditions associated with a deficiency of gonadal steroids can reduce BMD in adults and impair bone accrual in adolescents. In addition, other associated hormone alterations, for example, insulin-like growth factor 1 deficiency or high cortisol levels, can further exacerbate the effect of hypogonadism on bone metabolism, as can factors such as calcium and vitamin D deficiency, low body weight and exercise status. This Review discusses the effects of different hypogonadal states on bone metabolism in female adolescents and young adults, with particular emphasis on conditions associated with low energy availability, such as anorexia nervosa and athletic amenorrhoea, in which many factors other than hypogonadism affect bone. In contrast to most hypogonadal conditions, in which replacement of gonadal steroids is sufficient to normalize bone accrual rates and BMD, gonadal steroid replacement may not be sufficient to normalize bone metabolism in these states of energy deficit.

Noncontraceptive uses of hormonal contraception

Hormonal contraceptives are not only effective methods of birth control but also are effective at treating and/or preventing a variety of gynecologic and general disorders. Hormonal contraceptives can decrease the severity of acne, correct menstrual irregularities, treat endometriosis-associated pain, decrease bleeding associated with uterine myomas, decrease pain associated with menstrual periods, moderate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, reduce menstrual migraine frequency, and increase bone mineral density as well as decrease the risk of specific cancers such as endometrial and ovarian cancer. Women need to receive this information to guide them in their decisions regarding choice of contraception as well as treatment options for gynecologic disorders.

The state of hormonal contraception today: benefits and risks of hormonal contraceptives: progestin-only contraceptives

The progestin component of hormonal contraceptives accounts for most of their contraceptive effects. Several dosage forms of progestin-only contraceptives have been developed, including pills, injectables, implants, and intrauterine devices. Emergency contraceptives may also contain progestin only and are indicated for prevention of pregnancy following unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Each form has benefits, some specific to the form. An understanding of benefits and risks allows clinicians a wider choice when recommending effective hormonal contraception.

Update on hormonal contraception and bone density

Combination hormonal contraception and progestin-only contraception (including depot medroxyprogesterone acetate [DMPA]) are effective and convenient forms of reversible contraception that millions of women use worldwide. In recent years, observations of reduced bone mineral density in current users of these methods have led to concerns that this hormone-induced bone loss might translate into long-term increased fracture risk. Special focus has been placed on adolescent users who have not yet attained their peak bone mass as well as perimenopausal users. In 2004, the FDA added a black box warning to DMPA package labeling warning of the risk of significant bone loss and cautioning against long-term use (> 2 years). This article reviews evidence on the use of hormonal contraception and its effect on bone density in adolescent, premenopausal, and perimenopausal populations. Recommendations from reproductive healthcare organizations are reviewed and clinical recommendations are provided.

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (Mirena) and Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depoprovera) as long-term maintenance therapy for patients with moderate and severe endometriosis: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Progestogen therapy has been found to be useful in controlling endometriosis. For patients after conservative surgery, long-term medical maintenance therapy should be sought to prevent recurrence and control symptoms. Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) may be a useful form of prolonged progestogen therapy for endometriosis.

AIMS

To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of LNG-IUS to depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for patients with moderate or severe endometriosis following conservative surgery, in terms of symptoms control, recurrence prevention and patients' acceptance.

METHODS

A total of 30 patients after conservative surgery for endometriosis underwent randomisation. Of these patients, 15 received LNG-IUS and 15 had three-monthly depot MPA for three years. Their symptom control, recurrence, compliance and change in bone mineral density (BMD) were compared. The data were analysed using student's t-test and chi-square test.

RESULTS

Symptoms and recurrence were controlled by both therapies. The compliance was better in LNG-IUS Group with 13 patients staying on their therapy versus seven patients in Depot MPA Group. LNG-IUS users had a significantly better change in BMD (+0.023, +0.071 g/cm(2)) than Depot MPA users (-0.030, -0.017 g/cm(2)) in both hip and lumbar regions.

CONCLUSIONS

Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system was effective in symptom control and prevention of recurrence. LNG-IUS users showed a better compliance. After three years, bone gain was noted with LNG-IUS, but bone loss with depot MPA.

Predictors of higher bone mineral density loss and use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate

OBJECTIVE

To identify possible predictive factors of higher bone loss, defined as at least 5%, at the spine or femoral neck, over time in depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) users.

METHODS

Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured at the lumbar spine and femoral neck every 6 months in 240 white, African-American, and Hispanic women using DMPA. For the purpose of analysis, an arbitrary value of at least 5% BMD loss from the baseline value after 24 months of DMPA use at either the lumbar spine or the femoral neck was considered as higher BMD loss. Logistic regression analysis was then used to examine factors predictive of at least 5% BMD loss at either site.

RESULTS

Of the initial 240 DMPA users, 95 completed 24 months of follow-up. Forty-five of the 95 DMPA users (47.4%) had at least 5% BMD loss at the lumbar spine or femoral neck by 24 months. Multivariable logistic regression model showed that at least 5% BMD loss was associated with current smoking (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-11.96), calcium intake (in 100 mg) (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.65-0.99), and parity (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.29-0.82). Age, race or ethnicity, previous contraceptive use, and body mass index were not associated with higher BMD loss.

CONCLUSION

The risk of higher BMD loss associated with DMPA use may be reduced by quitting smoking and increasing calcium intake. Having had a child is also protective.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Recovery of bone mineral density in adolescents following the use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate contraceptive injections

BACKGROUND

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a highly effective progestin-only contraceptive that is widely used by adolescents. We investigated bone mineral density (BMD) changes in female adolescents during and following use of this method.

STUDY DESIGN

A multicenter, prospective, non-randomized observational study in 98 healthy female adolescents aged 12-18 years who initiated DMPA intramuscular injections for contraception and provided BMD data for up to 240 weeks while receiving DMPA and for up to 300 weeks after DMPA cessation. BMD at the lumbar spine (LS), total hip (TH) and femoral neck (FN) was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A mixed model analysis of variance was used to examine BMD changes.

RESULTS

At the time of their final DMPA injection, participants had mean BMD declines from baseline of 2.7% (LS), 4.1% (TH) and 3.9% (FN) (p<.001 at all three sites). Within 60 weeks of discontinuation of DMPA, mean LS BMD had returned to baseline levels, and 240 weeks after DMPA discontinuation, the mean LS BMD was 4.7% above baseline. Mean TH and FN BMD values recovered to baseline values more slowly: 240 weeks and 180 weeks, respectively, after the last DMPA injection.

CONCLUSIONS

BMD loss in female adolescents receiving DMPA for contraception is substantially or fully reversible in most girls following discontinuation of DMPA, with faster recovery at the LS than at the hip.

Effect of injectable and oral contraceptives on serum lipids

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the effects of using depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) or oral contraceptives (OCs) containing 20 micrograms ethinyl estradiol and 0.15 mg desogestrel on serum lipid levels.

METHODS

Serum lipids were measured at baseline and every 6 months thereafter for 3 years in 703 white, African-American, and Hispanic women using DMPA, OC, or nonhormonal birth control. Those who discontinued DMPA were followed for up to 2 additional years. Participants completed questionnaires containing demographic and behavioral measures every 6 months and underwent 24-hour dietary recalls annually. Mixed-model regression analyses and general-estimating-equations procedures were used to estimate changes over time in lipids by method along with their predictors.

RESULTS

Users of OCs experienced significantly greater increases in levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol than did nonhormonal-contraceptive users (P<.001). However, no difference was noted in the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol:HDL ratio between OC users and nonhormonal-contraceptive users. Among DMPA users, HDL levels initially decreased for 6 months but then returned to baseline. The LDL:HDL ratio rose in the first 6 months of DMPA use but then dropped back to baseline over the next 24 months. After DMPA was discontinued, triglyceride, VLDL, and HDL levels were significantly higher in women who used OCs than in those who chose nonhormonal (P<.05) methods.

CONCLUSION

Use of very-low-dose OCs containing desogestrel can elevate lipid levels. Users of DMPA were at increased risk of developing an abnormally low HDL level as well as an abnormally high LDL level and an increase in the LDL:HDL cholesterol ratio, although these effects appeared to be temporary.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Early weight gain predicting later weight gain among depot medroxyprogesterone acetate users

OBJECTIVE

To examine if early weight gain in depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) users predicts continued excessive weight gain and to identify risk factors of early weight gain in DMPA users.

METHODS

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate users (N=240) were assessed before initiating contraception and every 3 months for 36 months. Early weight gain was defined as more than 5% baseline weight gain within 6 months of DMPA use. Mean weight gain at 6-month intervals was estimated based on early weight gain status (at or below 5% gain compared with above 5% gain). Multiple logistic and mixed-model regression analyses were used.

RESULTS

About one-fourth of DMPA users had early weight gain. The mean weight gain of the at or below 5% group and above 5% group was 0.63 kg and 8.04 kg, 1.48 kg and 10.86 kg, and 2.49 kg and 11.08 kg after 12, 24, and 36 months (P<.001 at all observations), respectively. Early weight gainers also had a much steeper slope of weight gain over time than the regular weight gainers (0.35 kg/month compared with 0.08 kg/month, P<.001). Risk factors for early weight gain were body mass index less than 30 (odds ratio [OR] 4.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.513-10.455), parity (OR 2.23, 95% CI:1.040-4.761), and self-reported increased appetite after 6 months of DMPA use (OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.505-6.214).

CONCLUSION

Most DMPA users who gain excessive weight experience more than a 5% weight increase within 6 months. These data help physicians predict who is at risk of excessive gain and counsel them appropriately.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Helping women choose appropriate hormonal contraception: update on risks, benefits, and indications

Primary care physicians frequently provide contraceptive counseling to women who are interested in family planning, have medical conditions that may be worsened by pregnancy, or have medical conditions that necessitate the use of potentially teratogenic medications. Effective counseling requires up-to-date knowledge about hormonal contraceptive methods that differ in hormone dosage, cycle length, and hormone-free intervals and are delivered by oral, transdermal, transvaginal, injectable, or implantable routes. Effective counseling also requires an understanding of a woman's preferences and medical history as well as the risks, benefits, side effects, and contraindications of each contraceptive method. This article is designed to update physicians on this information.

Subcutaneous DMPA vs. intramuscular DMPA: a 2-year randomized study of contraceptive efficacy and bone mineral density

BACKGROUND

A formulation of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) has been developed that allows subcutaneous injection (104 mg/0.65 mL; DMPA-SC) and achieves highly effective contraception with a similar tolerability profile to intramuscular DMPA (150 mg/mL; DMPA-IM).

STUDY DESIGN

This randomized, evaluator-blinded study was designed to compare efficacy, safety, and user satisfaction in women receiving DMPA-SC (n=266) or DMPA-IM (n=268) for 2 years with an option to continue for a third year. The primary objectives were to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) changes and contraceptive efficacy after 2 years.

RESULTS

A total of 225 women completed the first 2 years of this study (DMPA-SC, n=116; DMPA-IM, n=109). After 2 years of DMPA use, BMD loss was marginally smaller in the DMPA-SC group than in the DMPA-IM group at both the total hip (-3.3% and -3.6%, respectively) and lumbar spine (-4.3% and -5.0%, respectively). In those women who received DMPA during the third year, there were no statistically significant differences in BMD loss between DMPA-SC and DMPA-IM groups at the end of Year 3. Recovery of BMD was observed in the small subpopulation of women who had discontinued DMPA-SC or DMPA-IM after the second year. The 2-year treatment-failure cumulative pregnancy rate was 0% in the DMPA-SC group and 0.8% (95% confidence interval, 0.00-2.37%) in the DMPA-IM group (life-table method). Adverse events were similar in the two groups except that injection site reactions were more common in the DMPA-SC group.

CONCLUSION

DMPA-SC is an effective and well-tolerated contraceptive option, providing comparable efficacy and BMD safety to DMPA-IM.

Bone mineral density in young women aged 19-24 after 4-5 years of exclusive and mixed use of hormonal contraception

BACKGROUND

Use of depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN) and low-dose combined oral contraceptives (COCs) has been associated with loss of bone mineral density (BMD) in adolescents. However, the effect of using a combination of these methods over time in this age group is limited. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate BMD in young women (aged 19-24 years) with a history of mixed hormonal contraceptive use.

STUDY DESIGN

BMD was measured at the spine, hip and femoral neck using dual X-ray absorptiometry. Women were classified into three groups: (1) injectable users (DMPA, NET-EN or both) (n=40), (2) mixed COC and injectable users (n=13) and (3) non-user control (n=41).

RESULTS

Women in the injectables-only user group were found to have lower BMDs compared to the non-user group at all three sites, and there was evidence of a difference in BMD between these two groups at the spine after adjusting for body mass index (p=.042), hip (p=.025) and femoral neck (p=.023). The mixed COC/injectable user group BMD values were lower than those for controls; however, there was no evidence of a significant difference between this group and the non-user group at any of the three sites.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that BMD is lower in long-term injectable users but not when women have mixed injectable and COC use.