Twelve-month discontinuation of etonogestrel implant in an outpatient pediatric setting

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.

Amenorrhea in adolescents using the etonogestrel contraceptive implant

OBJECTIVE

Clinical factors related to development of amenorrhea in adolescents with the etonogestrel contraceptive implant are not well-understood. The purpose of this study is to describe what baseline clinical characteristics are associated with amenorrhea in adolescents with a contraceptive implant 12 months after placement.

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective cohort study included 252 post-menarchal individuals aged 12-22 years with a contraceptive implant placed between 2016-2020. Data abstracted at insertion, three months post-insertion, and 12 months post-insertion included demographics, baseline bleeding pattern, prior contraception use, post-insertion bleeding pattern, and method discontinuation. We assessed possible predictive characteristics of our outcomes using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Twenty nine percent of patients were amenorrheic 12 months after placement. Patients who were amenorrheic at 12 months were more likely to be obese (41.1% vs 24.6%, p = 0.01), to have been amenorrheic prior to implant insertion (16.9% vs 5.4%, p < 0.01, to have used hormonal contraception immediately prior to insertion (42.5% vs 26.3%, p = 0.01), to have had the most recent contraceptive method being another implant (12.3% vs 3.6%, p = 0.02), and to have developed amenorrhea within three months after placement (22.2% vs 12.6%, p < 0.01). After multivariable regression analysis, only obesity (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.2 95% CI 1.1-4.2) and amenorrhea at three months (aOR 3.6, CI 1.1-11.5) were associated with amenorrhea at 12 months.

CONCLUSION

Obesity and early amenorrhea were associated with 12-month amenorrhea in adolescents using the etonogestrel subdermal implant. Understanding this can help with contraceptive method selection and counseling for patients and providers.

IMPLICATIONS

Obesity and early amenorrhea with the etonogestrel contraceptive implant are associated with longer-term amenorrhea in adolescents using this method. These findings can aid providers with method selection and pre-insertion decision-making for adolescents considering contraceptive implant use, as well as continued counseling after placement.

Early removal of the etonogestrel contraceptive implant in Spanish women: a prospective cohort study

Purpose

To know the discontinuation rate and characterize predictors and reasons of contraceptive implant removal within 12 months of insertion in our community setting.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included women receiving the etonogestrel contraceptive implant at sexual and reproductive health centers between September 2019 and September 2020. The variables collected were implanted insertion timing, reproductive and demographic characteristics, medical conditions, sexual activity and counseling. Our primary outcome was implant discontinuation. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to show the cumulative discontinuation rate of implants contraceptive within the first year of insertion. We also identified factors that increased the risk of implant removal using the log-rank test and the Cox regression model. Reasons for discontinuation were documented.

Results

199 women were followed up. Implant discontinuation was documented in 17.1% of implant users prior to 12 months. Factors that increase the risk of implant removal are living with a partner, being aged 25-34 years and not receiving comprehensive and structured counseling from the midwife. The main reason for removal was unsatisfactory bleeding (97.1%), but this was combined with other reasons such as cessation of sexual intercourse (58.8%), worsening mood (58.8%), weight gain (55.9%) or decreased libido (50.0%).

Conclusion

The rate of discontinuous implant uses in the first year is relevant in relation to cost-effectiveness, there is room for improvement that should not be overlooked. Comprehensive and structured midwife-led counseling can reduce early implant abandonment removal. The development in different countries of the role of midwives in the management of contraceptives can contribute to the economic benefit of health services and the satisfaction of women.

Acceptability of telemedicine for follow up after contraceptive implant initiation at an obstetrics and gynecologic training center

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine has become a popular adjunct to in-person visits, including for family planning services. This study determined the proportion of clients participated in telemedicine services and the association between sociodemographic factors and telemedicine participation during the COVID-19 pandemic. The adverse effects within the first seven days post-insertion were also reported.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study considered data from all women initiating contraceptive implantation between June 2020 and August 2021 at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital. Clients were offered the following two options for follow-up visits: in-person or communication via an online LINE® Official Account (LINE® OA), a free chat application widely used among the Thais. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between socio-demographic factors and telehealth usage.

RESULTS

In total, 574 of 947 (60.6%) clients participated in telemedicine follow-up services during the period considered. A significant association between telemedicine usage and the following were observed: the peak of second wave COVID-19 outbreak in Thailand, using the period preceding the second wave as a reference [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.47 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12-1.96)]; participants receiving governmental benefits for contraceptive implant payment (aOR: 3.23, 95% CI: 1.86-5.60), and timing of contraceptive implant(s) initiation, using interval insertion as a reference for which aORs of postpartum and immediate postpartum insertions were 0.62 (95% CI: 0.43-0.90) and 0.35 (95% CI: 0.24-0.52), respectively. Significant ecchymosis at the insertion site was observed in 13.1% of participants.

CONCLUSION

This study emphasizes the significance of telemedicine during the COVID-19 epidemic, particularly in facilitating contraceptive implant initiation. Our data show a significant increase in the uptake and utilization of telemedicine during the pandemic's peak. The data also shows that during the period of Thailand's second COVID-19 epidemic, government benefits for contraceptive implant payment, and the timing of contraceptive implant initiation, are significantly associated with telemedicine use. This finding supports the continued use of telemedicine in healthcare, particularly for services like family planning, where remote follow-ups can provide safe, efficient, and timely care.

Contraceptive Implant-Associated Bleeding in Adolescent/Young Adult Clinical Practice: Associated Factors, Management, and Rates of Discontinuation

PURPOSE

To identify factors associated with bothersome implant-associated uterine bleeding, and to evaluate the impact of bleeding management on implant discontinuation.

METHODS

We analyzed a quality improvement database of implant insertions (n = 825) at three adolescent/young adult programs and described individuals with and without reported bothersome bleeding. We utilized logistic regression to assess for factors associated with bleeding.

RESULTS

Implant recipient mean age was 18.9 ± 2.6 years, and 27% reported having subsequent bothersome uterine bleeding. Recipients had increased odds of reporting such bleeding if they had previously irregular menses (odds ratio [OR] = 1.36; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11-1.68 irregular and infrequent, OR = 1.41; 95% CI: 1.07-1.86 irregular and frequent) or sought the implant for menstrual management purposes exclusively (OR = 1.67; 95% CI 1.42-1.96) or in combination with contraceptive need (OR 1.65; 95%: CI 1.57-1.72). Prior use of the progestin injection or implant was associated with lower odds of subsequent bleeding report (OR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.54-0.73; OR = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.39-0.75, respectively). Medication management of bleeding was associated with the likelihood of implant discontinuation at 1 year compared to those with untreated bleeding (hazard ratio 1.98 times, 95% CI: 1.39-2.81). The implant was continued for 3 years in over 50% of recipients with ever-managed bothersome bleeding.

DISCUSSION

Individuals with historically irregular menses and those seeking the implant for menstrual management more often reported bothersome bleeding. Treating such bleeding with medication was associated with higher 1-year discontinuation rates, although many continued implant use for 3 years. Such findings may influence implant preinsertion counseling and/or postinsertion bleeding management.

One-year follow-up of immediate postpartum contraceptive implant insertion in adolescents

PURPOSE

Our study aimed to evaluate the acceptability, adverse effects and continuation rates among adolescents who accepted the etonogestrel (ENG) subdermal implant and compared to adolescents who chose other methods during the immediate postpartum period before hospital discharge, with one year follow-up up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a cohort non-randomised study at the Women's Hospital, University of Campinas. All women up to 19 years of age, who gave birth at the hospital between July 2019 and April 2020, were invited to participate and were offered the ENG-implant or the routine contraceptive methods. They were followed for one year postpartum.

RESULTS

We included 100 teenagers and 72 accepted the ENG-implant. Students are more likely to accept the ENG-implant than non-students (PR: 1.25 [95%CI 0.99-1.59]). Up to one year of follow-up, survival analysis showed that the time of adherence to the method was longer for the ENG-implant users (p = 0.0049). More than 90% of the adolescents were satisfied with the implant; however, five requested early removal due to menstrual irregularity and local discomfort.

CONCLUSION

Provision ENG-implant for adolescents in the immediate postpartum demonstrated high acceptance and ensured effective contraception. After one year, most of them were satisfied, with a high continuation rate and without unplanned pregnancies.

Tamoxifen for the Treatment of Etonogestrel Implant-Associated Bleeding in an Adolescent Gynecology Practice

OBJECTIVE

To describe clinical outcomes in a cohort of adolescent female patients using tamoxifen for the treatment of bothersome etonogestrel (ENG) implant-associated bleeding.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review SETTING: A tertiary children's hospital PARTICIPANTS: Adolescent female patients ages 12-21 seen between August 2016 and August 2019 with an ENG implant in place who received a tamoxifen prescription for the indication of implant-associated bleeding.

INTERVENTIONS

None MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Main outcome measures were implant continuation rates, average time to implant discontinuation after tamoxifen prescription, reasons for implant removal, number of doses and timing of tamoxifen use, bleeding patterns, and adverse effects.

RESULTS

A total of 67 patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age of patients was 16.7 years old. Of the patients with available follow-up data, 49 out of 60 (81.7%) were still using the implant at 12 months, 29 out of 53 (54.7%) at 24 months, and 9 out of 40 (22.5%) at 36 months. The average time from tamoxifen prescription to implant removal was 12.1 months. Bothersome bleeding was the primary reason for ENG implant discontinuation (68.6%). No side effects from tamoxifen use were reported.

CONCLUSION

Tamoxifen was well-tolerated among this cohort of patients and can be considered a treatment option to manage bothersome implant bleeding in adolescents.

Considerations in Adolescent Use of the Etonogestrel Subdermal Implant: A Cohort Study

Objectives: To describe bleeding patterns and other side effects in adolescent implant users and characterize their impact on early discontinuation of the implant.

Study Design: This is a retrospective cohort study of female patients under 18 years who had an implant placed from 2013 to 2018. Data were collected on demographics, medical history, and side effects.

Results: Of 212 adolescents, the average age at insertion was 16 years and 84% desired placement for contraception. Common side effects included AUB (80%), mood changes (10%), and perceived weight gain (9%). Most (76%) used the implant for at least 12 months. Average time to removal was 22.1 months (SD 13.0 months) and this did not depend on presence of side effects. Twenty-seven percent of teens were able to achieve amenorrhea. Adolescents with frequent or prolonged bleeding were more likely to have implant removal prior to 12 months than those with other bleeding patterns (p = 0.003). Early removal was also more common in girls reporting weight or mood issues than those who did not (p < 0.001 and p = 0.045, respectively). BMI increased in 64% of adolescents. Average percentage change in BMI was 3.2% (0.87 kg/m²). There was no difference in baseline use of any mood-modulating medications in patients who did and did not complain of mood side effects following implant placement (p = 0.801).

Conclusion: Characterization of bleeding patterns following implant placement in adolescents have not previously been reported. Prolonged or heavy bleeding, mood issues, and perceived weight gain were associated with earlier removal of the implant. A relatively small number had early removal of the implant due to weight or mood complaints. Therefore, a history of obesity, depression, or other mood disorders should not be a deterrent to implant placement.

The Etonogestrel Implant in Adolescents: Factors Associated With Removal for Bothersome Bleeding in the First Year After Insertion

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Temporizing measures such as hormonal pills can temporarily improve the side effect of breakthrough bleeding in individuals using the etonogestrel implant. The aims of this study were to determine demographic factors that are associated with bothersome bleeding and to evaluate the impact of prescribing temporizing measures on implant continuation.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

The research was conducted in an adolescent medicine primary and specialty care clinic, an adolescent family planning clinic, and a clinic that cares for parenting adolescents.

PARTICIPANTS

A chart review was conducted on 1200 patients aged 12-24 years who received the implant in 2016.

INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measure was removal of the implant within the first year of use. We followed each patient for 1 year to determine rates of removal, reasons for removal, and temporizing measures prescribed for bleeding.

RESULTS

Younger age and lower body mass index were associated with reporting bothersome vaginal bleeding. Patients who were nulliparous or had bothersome bleeding were more likely to have the implant removed in the first year. Patients who received a temporizing measure for bleeding were more likely to retain the implant for 1 year than were those who did not receive one (67.1% vs 40%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Some patients are more likely to report concerns with bleeding or to have the implant removed in the first year after insertion. Prescribing temporizing measures to control bothersome vaginal bleeding may decrease rates of removal in the first year.

Does Obesity Influence Body Mass Index Changes in Nulliparous Adolescent Users of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives?

OBJECTIVES

To compare body mass index (BMI) changes in adolescents using long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), specifically, the etonogestrel subdermal implant (ENG-implant), levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LNG-IUD), and copper IUD (Cu-IUD), by initial BMI category from the time of LARC insertion to within 6-18 months after insertion.

DESIGN

This was a single-center retrospective cohort study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

We reviewed electronic health records from our large health system to identify and follow a cohort of 196 adolescents aged 14-19 years with LARCs inserted from 2010 to 2016. We excluded adolescents with conditions or medications affecting weight, including childbirth.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

BMI change from LARC insertion to first BMI documented after 6-18 months RESULTS: Mean age was 17.2 ± 0.2 years; 59% of the cohort was Hispanic and 29% Black. Mean BMI was 26.4 ± 7.1 kg/m². Of the total cohort of adolescents, 51% were underweight/normal, 24% overweight, and 25% obese. Mean time to first BMI documented after LARC insertion was 10.1 ± 3.2 months. Mean BMI change for the total cohort was +0.73 ± 1.8 kg/m², indicating weight gain. Mean BMI change for the ENG-implant + LNG-IUD users (n = 127) was larger than for Cu-IUD users (n = 69) (+0.92 ± 1.9 kg/m² vs +0.37 ± 1.6 kg/m², respectively, P < .05). Two-way analysis of variance showed that both initial BMI category (P = .001) and type of LARC (P = .011) had an independent significant main effect on BMI change. A significant interaction effect (P = .017) showed that obese adolescents had a larger increase in BMI when they were using a progestin-releasing LARC, either ENG-implant or LNG-IUD, as compared to a Cu-IUD (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Adolescents using progestin-releasing LARCs had a larger increase in BMI within 6-18 months after device insertion than those using Cu-IUDs. The disproportionate increase in BMI with progestin-releasing LARCs was primarily contributed by obese users.

Pooled incidence of continuation and pregnancy rates of four contraceptive methods in young women: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Continuation rates of contraceptive methods in young women vary among studies, and there is scarce data regarding the pregnancy rate in this population.

METHODS

Four independently systematic searches were performed in PUBMED, EMBASE, LILACS, and Cochrane databases from inception until January 2021 for oral contraceptive pill (OCP), copper IUD, levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS), and subdermal implant. Inclusion criteria were observational or RCT studies that reported continuation for at least 12 months and/or pregnancy rate of these contraceptives methods in girls aged 22 years old or younger. Two authors extracted data from the study design and the outcomes. Pooled proportions of each method were applied using the inverse variance in all calculations with LOGIT transformation, using the random-effects model. Cochrane collaboration tool and New Castle-Ottawa were used to assess the quality and bias of all included studies. GRADE criteria evaluated the quality of evidence.

RESULTS

Continuation rate for OCP was 51% (95%CI 34%-68%), while for cooper IUD was 77% (95%CI 74%-80%), LNG-IUS 84% (95%CI 80%-87%), and implant 85% (95%CI 81%-88%). The pooled estimated pregnancy rate for OCP was 11% (95%CI 6%-20%), while for cooper IUD was 5% (95%CI 3%-7%), LNG-IUS 1.6% (95%CI 1.2%-2.3%), and implant 1.8% (95%CI 0.4%-8.4%).

CONCLUSION

Long-acting contraceptive methods presented higher continuation rates and lower pregnancy rates when compared to OCPs.

Safety and Benefits of Contraceptives Implants: A Systematic Review

Progestin-only contraceptive implants provide long-acting, highly effective reversible contraception. We searched the medical publications in PubMed, CENTRAL, and EMBASE for relevant articles on hormonal implants published in English between 1990 and 2021. Levonorgestrel (LNG) 6-capsule subdermal implants represented the first effective system approved for reversible contraception. The etonogestrel (ENG) single rod dispositive has been widely employed in clinical practice, since it is a highly effective and safe contraceptive method. Abnormal menstrual bleeding is a common ENG side effect, representing the main reason for its premature discontinuation. Emerging evidence demonstrated that it is possible to extend the use of the ENG implant beyond the three-year period for which it is approved. The ENG implant could be an effective and discrete alternative to the IUD in young girls, such as post-partum/post-abortion. Implants should be inserted by trained skilled clinicians who previously provide adequate counselling about their contraceptive effect, benefits, and any possible adverse events. More studies are needed to validate the extended use of the ENG implant for up to 5 years.

Twelve-month Continuation of the Etonogestrel Implant in Adolescents With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To identify why adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) chose the etonogestrel (ENG) contraceptive implant, to determine the 12-month continuation rate, and to characterize factors related to discontinuation.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Retrospective chart review of adolescents seen at a tertiary care children's hospital between July 1, 2008, and August 30, 2019, with PCOS diagnosis confirmed per National Institutes of Health criteria and ≥12-month ENG follow-up.

INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Demographic characteristics, reasons for ENG insertion and removal, and information on other hormonal/contraceptive therapies were collected. Patients were categorized as ENG continuers (use ≥12 months) or discontinuers (removal at <12 months), and groups were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 96 patients met inclusion criteria (age 17.7 ± 2.2 years, body mass index 34.8 ± 8 kg/m²). Reasons for ENG were documented in 74% (51% contraception, 32% ease of use, 15% other, 13% estrogen avoidance). In all, 27% had never been sexually active, and 67% had had prior sexual activity. Treatments prior to ENG placement included 74% combined hormonal contraception, 20% medroxyprogesterone acetate withdrawal, and 17% depot medroxyprogesterone. A total of 77% continued ENG at 12 months. The main reasons for discontinuation were bleeding (41%), concern about weight gain (23%), and mood changes (18%). No preimplantation characteristics were independently predictive of continuation, although 100% of patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 11) continued. Patients who sought additional care, including telephone calls (41% vs 12%, P = .006) and clinic visits (64% vs 20%, P < .001) were more likely to discontinue.

CONCLUSIONS

The ENG implant was well tolerated in adolescents with PCOS and similar to published 12-month continuation rates.

A systematic review on clinical effectiveness, side-effect profile and meta-analysis on continuation rate of etonogestrel contraceptive implant

BACKGROUND

Unintended pregnancies (UIP) have a significant impact on health of women and the health budget of countries. Contraception is an effective way to prevent UIPs. The study objective was to collate evidence on clinical effectiveness of etonogestrel subdermal implant (ESI), continuation rate and side effect profile among eligible women of reproductive age group, as compared to levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS), copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) and depot medroxy progesterone acetate injections; other types of contraceptive implants were excluded as comparators.

METHODS

The protocol of the systematic review was registered in Prospero (registration number: CRD42018116580). MEDLINE via PubMed, Cochrane library and web of science were the electronic databases searched. A search strategy was formulated and studies from 1998 to 2019 were included. Clinical trial registries and grey literature search was done. Critical assessment of included studies was done using appropriate tools. A qualitative synthesis of included studies was done and a meta-analysis was conducted in RevMan software for continuation rates of ESI as compared to other long acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) e.g. LNG IUS and Cu-IUD.

RESULTS

The search yielded 23,545 studies. After excluding 467 duplicates, 23,078 titles were screened and 51 studies were included for the review. Eight of the 15 studies reporting clinical effectiveness reported 100% effectiveness and overall pearl index ranged from 0 to 1.4. One-year continuation rates ranged from 57-97%; 44-95% at the end of second year and 25-78% by 3 years of use. Abnormal menstruation was the most commonly reported side effect. There was no significant difference in bone mineral density at 1 year follow-up. The meta-analyses showed that odds ratio (OR) of 1-year continuation rate was 1.55 (1.36, 1.76) for LNG-IUS vs. ESI and 1.34 (1.13, 1.58) for copper-IUD vs. ESI; showing that continuation rates at the end of one-year were higher in LNG-IUS and copper-IUD as compared to ESI.

CONCLUSION

ESI is clinically effective and safe contraceptive method to use, yet 1-year continuation rates are lower as compared to LNG-IUS and copper-IUD, mostly attributed to the disturbances in the menstruation.

Best Practices for Counseling Adolescents about the Etonogestrel Implant

Among young persons, ease of use, high efficacy, and high acceptability makes the etonogestrel contraceptive implant an important choice for this age group. Adolescent-friendly, patient-centered counseling considers the patient's cognitive development, the influence of friends and family, as well as their own preferences and values. Age-appropriate language, graphics, and models are useful to explain contraceptive options and relevant side effects. Effectiveness, reversibility, safety, noncontraceptive benefits, and side effects are important attributes and should be discussed when teens are choosing a contraceptive method. In this review we describe suggested best practices for counseling adolescents about the etonogestrel implant so they can make informed, prudent decisions about using this contraceptive method.

Determinants of Long-acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) Initial and Continued Use among Adolescents in the United States

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) has gained attention as a promising strategy for preventing unintended adolescent pregnancies in the United States. However, LARC use among adolescents at risk for pregnancy remains low compared to women in their 20s. The purpose of the current study was to synthesize the empirical literature published between 2010 and 2018 identifying the facilitators of and barriers to adolescents' (< age 20) LARC use in the United States. Thirty quantitative and qualitative studies were included in the current systematic review. The facilitators of and barriers to adolescent LARC use fell within five themes: LARC method characteristics, individual characteristics, social networks, healthcare systems, and historical time and geographical region. Barriers to adolescent LARC use largely echoed those identified in previous research noting the barriers to LARC use among young adult women (e.g., provider concerns with placing IUDs for nulliparous women, common adverse side effects associated with some LARC methods). However, qualitative studies identified adolescents' mothers as central figures in helping adolescents successfully obtain the LARC methods they desired. Conversely, adolescents' partners seemed to only play a minor role in adolescents' contraceptive decisions. Findings within the reviewed studies also suggested some subpopulations of adolescents may be experiencing pressure to initiate LARC use or have less ability to have their LARC device removed if they wish to discontinue use. Adolescent health practitioners and clinicians should consider the unique social-environmental influences of adolescents' contraceptive access and behaviors to best meet adolescents' contraceptive needs and desires.

Providing Long-acting Reversible Contraception to Adolescents: A Review

Unintended teen pregnancy continues to be a problem in the United States which has the highest rate of adolescent pregnancy among developed nations. Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) has much higher continuation rates compared with moderately effective reversible contraception; however, moderately effective reversible contraception is more commonly used by adolescents. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend LARC as first-line contraception for adolescents. Clinicians providing contraception to adolescents should be knowledgeable of LARC indications, side effects, initiation guidelines, management of adverse reactions, and adolescent specific issues regarding LARC counseling, initiation, and continuation.

Predictors of Discontinuation of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Before 30 Months of Use by Adolescents and Young Women

PURPOSE

The purpose of the article was to describe adolescent and young women's rates of discontinuation of intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants, the extent to which discontinuation is predicted by baseline factors, reasons for discontinuation, and subsequent contraceptive initiation.

METHODS

We recruited English-speaking women, aged 13-24 years, from a family planning clinic serving clients <25 years old. Participants completed surveys before and after contraceptive initiation visits. We reviewed medical records and contacted participants who initiated use of an IUD or contraceptive implant and assessed contraceptive discontinuation before 30 months of use. We collected follow-up data on duration of use, reasons for discontinuation, and new method selected. We used multivariable regression models to ascertain factors associated with method discontinuation.

RESULTS

From 2011 to 2013, 775 young women completed surveys and initiated IUD or implant use. We determined 30-month discontinuation status of 633 women (81.7%). Among those with known outcome, fewer IUD than implant initiators had discontinued use (36.3% vs. 45.4%, p = .02). Mean duration of use was 733 days (95% confidence interval 702-763 days) for the IUD and 697 days (95% confidence interval 666-728 days) for the implant. Participants who stated at baseline that it was "very important" to avoid pregnancy were about half as likely to discontinue use. The most common reasons for discontinuation were pain (IUD) and bleeding (implant). Most participants initiated alternate contraception after discontinuing their original method.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents and young women who initiate an IUD or implant make decisions for discontinuation based on weighing high contraceptive effectiveness with other reproductive health values and preferences.

Assessing Weight Status in Adolescent and Young Adult Users of the Etonogestrel Contraceptive Implant

STUDY OBJECTIVE

There are inconsistent data regarding hormonal contraception and weight. Weight concerns might deter teens from using highly effective contraception such as the etonogestrel subdermal implant (ENG). There is little literature about weight gain and adolescent ENG use; most studies involve adult women. The purpose of this study was to evaluate weight/body mass index (BMI) change in adolescent and young adult ENG users compared with nonusers.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review of 197 ENG users and age, race, BMI, and follow-up time-matched controls.

SETTING

Adolescent medicine clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals who had been using ENG for 6 months or more were eligible. A control group of non-ENG users who had been seen during the same period was identified to compare weight/BMI over time. Cases were matched to controls on age, BMI, and race.

INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Electronic medical records were reviewed for weight/BMI change and ENG side effects. The study was designed to have 80% power to detect a 2-kg weight difference between cases and controls.

RESULTS

Participant mean age was 17 (±2) years. Mean follow-up was 24.5 (±9.3) months. Forty-three of 197 ENG users removed the implant early; 3/43 (6.3%) patients cited weight gain as the primary reason for removal. Mean weight change for ENG users was +3.6 (±7.8) kg vs +3.1 (±5.9) kg for controls (P = .43); mean BMI change was +1.3 (±2.9) in cases vs +1.0 (±2.3) in controls (P = .204). Overall regression analyses showed no group differences among cases and controls.

CONCLUSION

Long-term ENG use did not lead to significant weight gain in this sample of adolescent and young adult women. This study supports the statement that ENGs are an effective and weight-neutral option.

Menstrual Bleeding Changes Are NORMAL: Proposed Counseling Tool to Address Common Reasons for Non-Use and Discontinuation of Contraception

A new family planning counseling tool uses the simple mnemonic device “NORMAL” to help family planning counselors and providers communicate to their clients key messages about menstrual bleeding changes associated with use of hormonal contraception and the copper IUD.

"Just Wear Dark Underpants Mainly": Learning from Adolescents' and Young Adults' Experiences with Early Discontinuation of the Contraceptive Implant

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Long-acting reversible contraception, including the contraceptive implant, is recommended for teens and young women. However, some young women discontinue the implant early, and we seek to better understand their experiences.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We conducted interviews with 16 young women ages 14 to 24 who presented for removal of the contraceptive implant within 6 months after placement at outpatient adolescent, family medicine, and obstetrics and gynecology clinics. We coded and analyzed transcripts to identify themes and develop a thematic framework.

INTERVENTIONS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

We explored decision-making regarding placement and removal of the implant, differences between anticipated and experienced side effects, and recommendations for counseling.

RESULTS

The participants reported experiencing significant side effects that led to removal, most often frequent or heavy bleeding or mood changes. These healthy young women were unprepared for these symptoms, despite remembering being told about possible side effects. Participants wanted more concrete examples of possible side effects, and personal stories of side effects experienced by others, rather than general terms such as irregular bleeding or mood changes. Few discussed problems with their providers; instead, they relied on the Internet or friends to help decide when to remove the implant. Nearly half of the participants did not start new contraception after removal, although they voiced a continued desire to avoid pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

We identified a need for more descriptive counseling about side effects experienced by individuals, and guidance on what to do about problems encountered after placement.

Long-acting reversible contraception in adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Among adolescent pregnancies, 75% are unintended. Greater use of highly-effective contraception can reduce unintended pregnancy. Although multiple studies discuss adolescent contraceptive use, there is no consensus regarding the use of long-acting reversible contraception as a first-line contraception option.

OBJECTIVE

We performed a systematic review of the medical literature to assess the continuation of long-acting reversible contraceptives among adolescents.

STUDY DESIGN

Ovid-MEDLINE, Cochrane databases, and Embase databases were searched using key words relevant to the provision of long-acting contraception to adolescents. Articles published from January 2002 through August 2016 were selected for inclusion based on specific key word searches and detailed review of bibliographies. For inclusion, articles must have provided data on method continuation, effectiveness, or satisfaction of at least 1 long-acting reversible contraceptive method in participants <25 years of age. Duration of follow-up had to be ≥6 months. Long-acting reversible contraceptive methods included intrauterine devices and the etonogestrel implant. Only studies in the English language were included. Guidelines, systematic reviews, and clinical reviews were examined for additional citations and relevant points for discussion. Of 1677 articles initially identified, 90 were selected for full review. Of these, 12 articles met criteria for inclusion. All studies selected for full review were extracted by multiple reviewers; inclusion was determined by consensus among authors. For studies with similar outcomes, forest plots of combined effect estimates were created using the random effects model. The meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology guidelines were followed. Primary outcomes measured were continuation of method at 12 months, and expulsion rates for intrauterine devices.

RESULTS

This review included 12 studies, including 6 retrospective cohort studies, 5 prospective observational studies, and 1 randomized controlled trial. The 12 studies included 4886 women age <25 years: 4131 intrauterine device users and 755 implant users. The 12-month continuation of any long-acting reversible contraceptive device was 84.0% (95% confidence interval, 79.0-89.0%). Intrauterine device continuation was 74.0% (95% confidence interval, 61.0-87.0%) and implant continuation was 84% (95% confidence interval, 77.0-91.0%). Among postpartum adolescents, the 12-month long-acting reversible contraceptive continuation rate was 84.0% (95% confidence interval, 71.0-97.0%). The pooled intrauterine device expulsion rate was 8.0% (95% confidence interval, 4.0-11.0%).

CONCLUSION

Adolescents and young women have high 12-month continuation of long-acting reversible contraceptive methods. Intrauterine devices and implants should be offered to all adolescents as first-line contraceptive options.

2016 Updates to US Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use and Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use: Highlights for Adolescent Patients

The US Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use (MEC) and US Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use (SPR) provide evidence-based guidance to safely provide contraception counseling and services. Both documents were updated in 2016 and are endorsed by the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. The purpose of this mini-review is to highlight updates to the US MEC and US SPR that are most relevant to health care providers of adolescents to support dissemination and implementation of these evidence-based best practices. This document is intended to highlight these changes and to complement, not replace, the detailed practice guidance within the US MEC and US SPR.

Barriers and Facilitators to Adolescents' Use of Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives

Most pregnancies among teenagers are unintended and many can be attributed to contraception misuse or nonuse. The etonogestrel implant and intrauterine devices, referred to as long-acting reversible contraceptives, or LARCs, are the most effective reversible contraceptive methods. These methods are safe for use by adolescents, yet the number of LARC users remains low among adolescents in the United States. In this review we examine recent literature about barriers and facilitators to LARC use among adolescent women. Factors that influence decision-making and provision are organized into 4 categories: (1) cost and clinical operations; (2) adolescent awareness and attitudes; (3) confidentiality, consent, and parental attitudes; and (4) health care provider knowledge, attitudes, and counseling. Knowledge deficits and misconceptions among adolescents and their health care providers are key barriers to adolescent LARC use.

Beyond the Surface

Purpose: To describe rates of and reasons for follow-up among adolescents and adults receiving contraceptive implants in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). Methods: Retrospective comparison of patient-initiated implant-related contacts during the 6 months postinsertion among adolescents (110) and adults (154) who had implants placed at a FQHC network. Results: Forty percent of adolescents and 26% of adults initiated follow-up ( P = .016). Bleeding changes and discussing removal were the most common reasons for follow-up for both groups. Adolescents (5.5%) and adults (9.0%) had similar removal rates ( P = .348). However, among patients who discussed implant removal, adults were more likely to have removals compared with adolescents ( P = .002). Conclusions: Other FQHCs may anticipate a similar experience to ours, where adolescents may be more likely than adults to initiate implant-related follow up, with removal rates of less than 10% at 6 months. Further study of physician decision making and patient autonomy regarding implantable contraception removal requests is warranted.