Bone density recovery after depot medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable contraception use

U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2024

The 2024 U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (U.S. MEC) comprises recommendations for the use of specific contraceptive methods by persons who have certain characteristics or medical conditions. These recommendations for health care providers were updated by CDC after review of the scientific evidence and a meeting with national experts in Atlanta, Georgia, during January 25-27, 2023. The information in this report replaces the 2016 U.S. MEC (CDC. U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2016. MMWR 2016:65[No. RR-3]:1-103). Notable updates include 1) the addition of recommendations for persons with chronic kidney disease; 2) revisions to the recommendations for persons with certain characteristics or medical conditions (i.e., breastfeeding, postpartum, postabortion, obesity, surgery, deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism with or without anticoagulant therapy, thrombophilia, superficial venous thrombosis, valvular heart disease, peripartum cardiomyopathy, systemic lupus erythematosus, high risk for HIV infection, cirrhosis, liver tumor, sickle cell disease, solid organ transplantation, and drug interactions with antiretrovirals used for prevention or treatment of HIV infection); and 3) inclusion of new contraceptive methods, including new doses or formulations of combined oral contraceptives, contraceptive patches, vaginal rings, progestin-only pills, levonorgestrel intrauterine devices, and vaginal pH modulator. The recommendations in this report are intended to serve as a source of evidence-based clinical practice guidance for health care providers. The goals of these recommendations are to remove unnecessary medical barriers to accessing and using contraception and to support the provision of person-centered contraceptive counseling and services in a noncoercive manner. Health care providers should always consider the individual clinical circumstances of each person seeking contraceptive services. This report is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice for individual patients; when needed, patients should seek advice from their health care providers about contraceptive use.

Managing menstruation for medically complex paediatric patients

Physicians who care for children and adolescents need evidence-based information about how to manage menses for medically complicated patients. The use of many hormonal medications for menstrual management is considered 'off-label' because many of these medications have indications only for contraception. A growing body of evidence supports the use of particular medications or strategies for a wide variety of medical conditions, but this information has been slow to reach all paediatric patients, perhaps in part because of the off-label nature of prescribing. Specialists skilled in hormone management are in short supply and often not immediately available for consultation, and they may also be inexperienced prescribing for medically complex paediatric patients. Misconceptions about the necessity of menstruation or concerns regarding use of contraceptives in young patients may also limit the use of medically indicated off-label hormonal regimens. This review will outline current patient-centred strategies to inform physicians' choices about when and how to intervene medically to improve quality of life for medically complex girls with problematic periods-whether by making periods more predictable, preventing ovulation, reducing pain or eliminating menses altogether.

Hormonal contraception for female athletes presents special needs and concerns

PURPOSE

Oral contraceptives (OCs) are commonly used by female athletes raising concerns regarding the possible adverse effects of OCs on physical performance, musculoskeletal injuries, and bone density. We aimed to review all current studies on the physiological effects of OCs in physically active women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A review of literature in electronic search in PubMed and Google Scholar databases from December 2002 to December 2022 using relevant keywords. The reference lists of the articles found eligible were also reviewed.

RESULTS

Out of 344 articles in the initial database, 54 clinical studies were eligible for inclusion in our literature review. OCs are used by about two-thirds of female athletes. Current research suggests that OCs' effects on endurance performance and muscle strength are mostly reassuring. OCs do not seem to have a major negative impact on bone health or sports injuries. In fact, new data suggests that they may even significantly reduce the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

CONCLUSIONS

OCs can be safely used by young female athletes, who may also benefit from better menstrual cycle control. OCs offer newly realised protection from ACL injuries. The use of OCs must be carefully individualised according to their preferences, expectations, and experience.

Bone Mineral Density During and After Lactation: A Comparison of African American and Caucasian Women

During lactation, changes in maternal calcium metabolism are necessary to provide adequate calcium for newborn skeletal development. The calcium in milk is derived from the maternal skeleton through a process thought to be mediated by the actions of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in combination with decreased circulating estrogen concentrations. After weaning, bone lost during lactation is rapidly regained. Most studies of bone metabolism in lactating women have been performed in Caucasian subjects. There are well-documented differences between African American (AA) and Caucasian (C) bone metabolism, including higher bone mineral density (BMD), lower risk of fracture, lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D), and higher PTH in AA compared to C. In this prospective paired cohort study, BMD and markers of bone turnover were compared in self-identified AA and C mothers during lactation and after weaning. BMD decreased in both AA and C women during lactation, with similar decreases at the lumbar spine (LS) and greater bone loss in the C group at the femoral neck (FN) and total hip (TH), demonstrating that AA are not resistant to PTHrP during lactation. BMD recovery compared to the 2 week postpartum baseline was observed 6 months after weaning, though the C group did not have complete recovery at the FN. Increases in markers of bone formation and resorption during lactation were similar in AA and C. C-terminal telopeptide (CTX) decreased to 30% below post-pregnancy baseline in both groups 6 months after weaning, while procollagen type 1 N-terminal (P1NP) returned to baseline in the AA group and fell to below baseline in the C group. Further investigation is required to determine impacts on long term bone health for women who do not fully recover BMD before a subsequent pregnancy.

Menstrual Management Choices in Transgender and Gender Diverse Adolescents

PURPOSE

Transgender and gender diverse patients who are assigned female at birth may request menstrual management to alleviate an increased dysphoria due to menses. The objective of this study is to describe the initiation and use over time of menstrual management methods (MMMs) in transgender and gender diverse adolescents.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients in a multidisciplinary pediatric gender program from March 2015 to December 2020 who were assigned female at birth, identified as transgender or gender diverse, and had achieved menarche. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Of 133 patients, 119 (90%) identified as transgender male, 11 (8%) as gender nonbinary, and 3 (2%) as another gender identity. Mean age was 15 (standard deviation 1.6) years. Only 12 (9%) patients had ever been sexually active. During the study period, 48 (36%) used gender-affirming testosterone. At the initial visit, 114 (86%) patients were not using an MMM. Of 80 patients who initiated a new MMM, 3 (4%) chose continuous oral contraceptive pills, 65 (83%) used norethindrone acetate (NETA), and 9 (11%) planned levonorgestrel intrauterine device (IUD) insertion. At 1 year, 56 patients were using NETA and 20 had an IUD in place.

DISCUSSION

This study provides data on MMM choice in transgender and gender diverse adolescents using these methods almost exclusively for menstrual management and not contraception. Although few patients were using an MMM at baseline, most opted to start a method when given the opportunity. The most common methods were NETA or an levonorgestrel IUD.

Perspective Chapter: Modern Birth Control Methods

This chapter focuses on various modern birth control methods, including combined oral contraceptives, progestogen-only pills, progestogen-only injectables, progestogen-only implants, intrauterine devices, barrier contraceptives, and emergency contraceptive pills. Each contraceptive method is covered in detail, including mechanism of action, effectiveness, health benefits, advantages, disadvantages, risks, and side-effects.

General Approaches to Medical Management of Menstrual Suppression: ACOG Clinical Consensus No. 3

SUMMARY

The purpose of this document is to review currently available management options, general principles, and counseling approaches for reproductive-aged patients requesting menstrual suppression. It includes considerations for unique populations, including adolescents, patients with physical or cognitive disabilities or both, and those with limited access to health care. Gynecologists should be familiar with the use of hormonal therapy for menstrual suppression (including combined oral contraceptive pills, combined hormonal patches, vaginal rings, progestin-only pills, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device, and the etonogestrel implant). Approaches to counseling should be individualized based on patient preferences and goals, average treatment effectiveness, and contraindications or risk factors for adverse events. Counseling regarding the choice of hormonal medication for menstrual suppression should be approached with the utmost respect for patient autonomy and be free of coercion. Complete amenorrhea may be difficult to achieve; thus, obstetrician-gynecologists and other clinicians should counsel patients and caregivers, if applicable, about realistic expectations.

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 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 Bone Mineral Density During and After Lactation in Ugandan Women With HIV on Tenofovir-Based Antiretroviral Therapy

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated with bone loss, but data are limited in lactation, when physiological bone mineral mobilization is occurring. This research charted changes in areal bone mineral density (aBMD) during and after lactation in Ugandan women with HIV (WWH) initiated onto ART in pregnancy, compared to women without HIV (REF). One-hundred WWH on tenofovir-based ART and 100 REF were enrolled in pregnancy. Lumbar spine (LS), total hip (TH), and whole-body-less-head (WBLH) aBMD were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at 2, 14, and 26 weeks of lactation, and at 3 months postlactation. The primary outcome was the difference between groups in mean percent change in LS aBMD between 2 and 14 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed in hierarchical repeated measures ANOVA models that corrected for multiple testing. Median age was 23.4 (IQR, 21.0 to 26.8) years. WWH had lower body weight. aBMD decreased in both groups during lactation, but WWH had greater decreases at TH (2-to-26 weeks: WWH [n = 63] -5.9% [95% CI, -6.4 to -5.4] versus REF [n = 64] -4.3% [95% CI, -4.8 to -3.8]; group*time point interaction p = .008). Decreases in LS aBMD were similar in WWH and REF (2-to-26 weeks: -2.0% [95% CI, -2.5 to -1.5]), although there was a tendency toward a smaller decrease in WWH between 2 and 14 weeks (WWH [n = 77] -1.8% [95% CI, -2.2 to -1.4] versus REF [n = 69] -2.9% [95% CI, -3.3 to -2.5]; group*time point interaction p = .08). Postlactation, LS aBMD was higher relative to week 2 in both groups. TH and WBLH aBMD did not return to week 2 values in WWH but did in REF (TH postlactation versus week 2: WWH [n = 61] -3.1% [95% CI, -3.6 to -2.6]; REF [n = 29] +0.1% [95% CI, -0.9 to +1.1]). These data show accentuated bone loss during lactation and only partial skeletal recovery by 3 months postlactation in Ugandan WWH on tenofovir-based ART. Studies are ongoing to understand longer-term consequences for bone health. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by 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.

Fertility, Contraception, and Novel Reproductive Technologies in Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis function, leading to menstrual abnormalities, sexual dysfunction, functional menopause, and loss of fertility. Pregnancy in a patient with CKD is associated with a higher risk of complications to both the mother and the fetus, highlighting the importance of contraceptive counseling at all stages of CKD. There has been limited research on the safety and efficacy of different contraceptive methods in the CKD population, and it is important to tailor the choice of contraception to the patient's lifestyle and comorbidity status. Cyclophosphamide is a commonly used immunosuppressive agent that impairs fertility in a dose-dependent fashion, with greater impact in older women of child-bearing age. Strategies to reduce the impact of cyclophosphamide on ovarian reserve as well as fertility preservation technologies are options to consider when treating immune-mediated CKD. A multidisciplinary approach in counseling the woman with CKD who wishes to contemplate or avoid pregnancy is necessary to optimize outcomes. Further research in this important area is required.

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.

Methods of contraception: the nurse's role in providing care and advice

Most women require contraception during their reproductive years, and many methods are available. Women should have access to all of these methods and be encouraged to take an active role in decision-making about their choice of contraceptive, within medical eligibility constraints. Long-acting reversible contraceptives are more effective than user-dependent methods, such as condoms, and should be offered to all women during contraceptive consultations. In primary care settings, nurses often provide much basic contraception care and advice. Nurses should ensure that they work within the limits of their competence and are aware of how and where to refer women for specialist support, if required.

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.

Knowledge insufficient: the management of haemoglobin SC disease

Although haemoglobin SC (HbSC) accounts for 30% of sickle cell disease (SCD) in the United States and United Kingdom, evidence-based guidelines for genotype specific management are lacking. The unique pathology of HbSC disease is complex, characterized by erythrocyte dehydration, intracellular sickling and increased blood viscosity. The evaluation and treatment of patients with HbSC is largely inferred from studies of SCD consisting mostly of haemoglobin SS (HbSS) patients. These studies are underpowered to allow definitive conclusions about HbSC. We review the pathophysiology of HbSC disease, including known and potential differences between HbSS and HbSC, and highlight knowledge gaps in HbSC disease management. Clinical and translational research is needed to develop targeted treatments and to validate management recommendations for efficacy, safety and impact on quality of life for people with HbSC.

Depo-Provera (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate) use after bariatric surgery

In the US, obesity rates are increasing greatly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 68.5% of Americans, including 63.9% of adult women older than 20 years, are overweight (body mass index between 25 kg/m² and 29.9 kg/m²) or obese (body mass index >30 kg/m²). In light of this, it is not surprising that the rates of bariatric surgery have also been increasing. When considering the metabolic changes associated with both bariatric surgery and contraceptive use, in combination with the unique medical considerations of obese women, it is indisputable that clear guidelines are needed when counseling obese patients of reproductive age after bariatric surgery. In this literature review, we focus on depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) and the implications of its use in obese women, preweight and postweight loss following bariatric surgery. Both DMPA use and bariatric surgery are known to cause bone loss, but it is still unclear whether there is an additive effect of the two factors on bone loss and whether either of these factors directly leads to an increased risk of bone fracture. The current consensus guidelines do not impose a restriction on the use of DMPA after bariatric surgery. DMPA use is associated with weight gain, and it is unclear whether weight loss blunting occurs with the use of DMPA after bariatric surgery. Prior studies had demonstrated an association with weight gain in adolescents, and therefore, those prescribing DMPA use after bariatric surgery in adolescents should proceed with caution. Adult women do not have a similar response to the use of DMPA. DMPA use has rarely been associated with increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). The obesity-associated increase in VTE should be mitigated by surgically induced weight loss. The concurrent use of DMPA in the post bariatric surgical period should not further increase the risk of VTE.

Unscheduled bleeding and contraceptive choice: increasing satisfaction and continuation rates

Approximately half (51%) of the 6.6 million pregnancies in the US each year are unintended and half of those pregnancies (54%) occur among women not using contraception. Many women discontinue their contraceptives due to method dissatisfaction. Bothersome unscheduled bleeding is one of the main reasons cited by women for stopping a birth control method. Improving counseling and management of these side effects will aide in increasing satisfaction with contraceptive methods. The following review will discuss the bleeding profiles associated with the contraceptive options available in the US. A valuable resource from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the US Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, will be introduced. Definitions of the types of unscheduled bleeding are included, as well as strategies for treatment for each contraceptive method. The evidence whether or not anticipatory counseling increases continuation rates will also be reviewed.

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.

Management of endocrine disease: Secondary osteoporosis: pathophysiology and management

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased mass and compromised bone strength predisposing to an increased risk of fractures. Although idiopathic osteoporosis is the most common form of osteoporosis, secondary factors may contribute to the bone loss and increased fracture risk in patients presenting with fragility fractures or osteoporosis. Several medical conditions and medications significantly increase the risk for bone loss and skeletal fragility. This review focuses on some of the common causes of osteoporosis, addressing the underlying mechanisms, diagnostic approach and treatment of low bone mass in the presence of these conditions.

Understanding and Managing Pregnancy in Patients with Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, multisystemic autoimmune disease that occurs predominantly in women of fertile age. The association of SLE and pregnancy, mainly with active disease and especially with nephritis, has poorer pregnancy outcomes, with increased frequency of preeclampsia, fetal loss, prematurity, growth restriction, and newborns small for gestational age. Therefore, SLE pregnancies are considered high risk condition, should be monitored frequently during pregnancy and delivery should occur in a controlled setting. Pregnancy induces dramatic immune and neuroendocrine changes in the maternal body in order to protect the fetus from immunologic attack and these modifications can be affected by SLE. The risk of flares depends on the level of maternal disease activity in the 6–12 months before conception and is higher in women with repeated flares before conception, in those who discontinue useful medications and in women with active glomerulonephritis at conception. It is a challenge to differentiate lupus nephritis from preeclampsia and, in this context, the angiogenic and antiangiogenic cytokines are promising. Prenatal care of pregnant patients with SLE requires close collaboration between rheumatologist and obstetrician. Planning pregnancy is essential to increase the probability of successful pregnancies.

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.

Menstrual suppression in special circumstances

OBJECTIVE

To provide a Canadian consensus document for health care providers with recommendations for menstrual suppression in patients with physical and/or cognitive challenges or those who are undergoing cancer treatment in whom menstruation may have a deleterious effect on their health.

OPTIONS

This document reviews the options available for menstrual suppression, its specific indications, contraindications, and side effects, both immediate and long-term, and the investigations and monitoring necessary throughout suppression.

OUTCOMES

Clinicians will be better informed about the options and indications for menstrual suppression in patients with cognitive and/or physical disabilities and patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or other treatments for cancer.

EVIDENCE

Published literature was retrieved through searches of Medline, EMBASE, OVID, and the Cochrane Library using appropriate controlled vocabulary and key words (heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual suppression, chemotherapy/radiation, cognitive disability, physical disability, learning disability). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, observation studies, and pilot studies. There were no language or date restrictions. Searches were updated on a regular basis and new material was incorporated into the guideline until September 2013. Grey (unpublished) literature was identified through searching 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 evidence was rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (Table 1).

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS

There is a need for specific guidelines on menstrual suppression in at-risk populations for health care providers. Recommendations 1. Menstrual suppression and therapeutic amenorrhea should be considered safe and viable options for women who need or want to have fewer or no menses. (II-2A) 2. Menstrual suppression should not be initiated in young women with developmental disabilities until after the onset of menses. (II-2B) 3. Combined hormonal or progesterone-only products can be used in an extended or continuous manner to obtain menstrual suppression. (I-A) 4. Gynaecologic consultation should be considered prior to the initiation of treatment in all premenopausal women at risk for abnormal uterine bleeding from chemotherapy. (II-1A) 5. Leuprolide acetate or combined hormonal contraception should be considered highly effective in preventing abnormal uterine bleeding when initiated prior to cancer treatment in premenopausal women at risk for thrombocytopenia. (II-2A).

Secondary osteoporosis: pathophysiology & diagnosis

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease characterized by decreased bone mass and microarchitectural changes in bone tissue that increase the susceptibility to fracture. Secondary osteoporosis is loosely defined as low bone mineral density or increased risk of fragility fracture caused by any factor other than aging or postmenopausal status. The purpose of this review is to discuss the current understanding of the pathophysiology and contribution to fracture risk of many of the more common causes of secondary osteoporosis, as well as diagnostic considerations, outlined by organ system. While not comprehensive, included are a wide array of diseases, conditions, and medications that have been associated with bone loss and susceptibility to fractures. The hope is to highlight the importance to the general clinician of screening for and treating the osteoporosis in these patients, so to limit the resultant increased morbidity associated with fractures.

Bone densitometry in children and adolescents

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Abnormalities in bone health are increasingly recognized in the pediatric population. Although the methodologies for assessing bone mineral density were originally developed for adults, great strides have been made in recent years, improving their applicability to children. Understanding these technologies, their interpretation, utility, and limitations is critical when assessing a child or adolescent with a suspected abnormality in bone mineral density.

RECENT FINDINGS

Improved normative databases that address some of the confounding variables in the growing and maturing child have solidified dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry as the preferred method for the assessment of bone mineral density in children. Consensus statements by expert panels now provide specific guidance to clinicians seeking to evaluate children with fractures or at risk for fractures. Although still primarily a research tool, continued development of quantitative computed tomography applications in pediatrics suggests there may be a complementary role for clinical use in the future.

SUMMARY

In the child or adolescent with a significant fracture history or a potential for fractures because of an underlying cause, clinicians now have guidelines and normative data to better focus their evaluation. Likewise, researchers can use this information to improve clinical trial design and interpretation of results.

The challenge of pregnancy for patients with SLE

Pregnancy poses an important challenge for doctors looking after women with systemic lupus erythematosus. Knowledge about safety of medications, the effect of pregnancy on such disease, and vice versa, together with multidisciplinary team care, are basic cornerstones needed to provide the best obstetric and medical care to these women. Pre-conceptional counselling constitutes the ideal scenario where a patient's previous obstetric history, organ damage, disease activity, serological profile and additional medical history can be summarized. Important issues regarding medication adjustment, planned scans and visits, and main risks discussion should also be raised at this stage. Planned pregnancies lead to better outcomes for both mothers and babies. Close surveillance throughout pregnancy and the puerperium, and tailored management approach guarantee the highest rates of successful pregnancies in these women.

Evaluation and management of the premenopausal woman with low BMD

Interpretation of bone mineral density (BMD) results in premenopausal women is particularly challenging, since the relationship between BMD and fracture risk is not the same as for postmenopausal women. In most cases, Z scores rather than T scores should be used to define "low BMD" in premenopausal women. The finding of low BMD in a premenopausal woman should prompt thorough evaluation for secondary causes of bone loss. If a secondary cause is found, management should focus on treatment of this condition. In a few cases where the secondary cause cannot be eliminated, treatment with a bone active agent to prevent bone loss should be considered. In women with no fractures and no known secondary cause, low BMD is associated with microarchitectural defects similar to young women with fractures; however, no longitudinal data are available to allow use of BMD to predict fracture risk. BMD is likely to be stable in these women with isolated low BMD, and pharmacologic therapy is rarely necessary. Assessment of markers of bone turnover and follow-up bone density measurements can help to identify those with an ongoing process of bone loss that may indicate a higher risk for fracture, and possible need for pharmacologic intervention.

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.

Contraception for women over 40

Nurse practitioners can help women 40 and older make contraceptive choices that are effective, safe, and appropriate. The noncontraceptive benefits of some methods may be particularly relevant to women in this age group. Providing women with information about continuing fertility as they approach menopause and when it is safe to discontinue contraception may help to reduce unplanned pregnancies.

Novel actions of progesterone: what we know today and what will be the scenario in the future?

Objectives

This article is aimed to review the novel actions of progesterone, which otherwise is considered as a female reproductive hormone. The article focuses on its important physiological actions in males too and gives an overview of its novel perspectives in disorders of central and peripheral nervous system.

Key findings

Progesterone may have a potential benefit in treatment of traumatic brain injury, various neurological disorders and male related diseases like benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), prostate cancer and osteoporosis. Norethisterone (NETA), a progesterone derivative, decreases bone mineral loss in male castrated mice suggesting its role in osteoporosis. In the future, progesterone may find use as a male contraceptive too, but still needs confirmatory trials for safety, tolerability and acceptability. Megestrol acetate, a progesterone derivative is preferred in prostatic cancer. Further, it may find utility in nicotine addiction, traumatic brain injury (recently entered Phase III trial) and Alzheimer's disease, diabetic neuropathy and crush injuries. Studies also suggest role of progesterone in stroke, for which further clinical trials are needed. The non genomic actions of progesterone may be in part responsible for these novel actions.

Summary

Although progesterone has shown promising role in various non-hormonal benefits, further clinical studies are needed to prove its usefulness in conditions like stroke, traumatic brain injury, neuropathy and crush injury. In male related illnesses like BPH and prostatic Ca, it may prove a boon in near future. New era of hormonal male contraception may be initiated by use of progesterone along with testosterone.

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate use and periodontal health in 15- to 44-year-old US females

BACKGROUND

It has been suggested that progestins may have an inflammatory component and/or increase in prostaglandin synthesis. Thus, extended progestin use may be associated with higher risk of periodontal diseases. This study investigates the association between depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) injectable contraception and the prevalence of periodontal diseases among US premenopausal females.

METHODS

Data for this cross-sectional analysis comes from the 1999 to 2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. This analysis includes 4,460 US females (15 to 44 years of age) with complete DMPA usage and periodontal status data.

RESULTS

Current and past DMPA use was 4.1% and 12.0%, respectively. The prevalence of gingivitis was 53.9% for females who reported having used DMPA compared with 46.1% for DMPA never-users. Females taking DMPA were more likely to be young, single, and non-white, have a history of smoking, have lower levels of education and income, and have ≥1 live births and were less likely to visit the dentist. Using logistic regression, DMPA use was associated with an increased risk of gingivitis (odds ratio [OR] =1.7; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09 to 1.67) and periodontitis (DMPA, OR = 1.49; 95% CI = 1.01 to 2.22) after adjusting for age, race, education, poverty income ratio, dental care use, and smoking status. A significant interaction between smoking status and DMPA use was also found (P = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that DMPA use may be associated with periodontal diseases. Additional investigation is warranted as a result of the disproportionate usage of DMPA among low-income populations who are at an increased risk for poor dental health.

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.