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Déa CA, Moreira ECH, Zamboti CL. Sexual function, quality of life, anxiety, and depression in women of reproductive age using hormonal, nonhormonal, and no contraceptive methods. J Sex Med 2024:qdae060. [PMID: 38842258 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormonal contraceptive use has been related to adverse effects, including impacts on sexual function and sexual satisfaction, although the difference in the effects on sexual function with the use of hormonal vs nonhormonal contraceptive methods remains controversial. AIM In this study we sought to compare the prevalence of dyspareunia, sexual function, sexual satisfaction, quality of life, anxiety, and depression between women using hormonal, nonhormonal, or no contraceptive methods and to compare these outcomes between the most frequently used contraceptive methods. METHODS This cross-sectional study included sexually active women of reproductive age who were stratified into 3 groups: women using hormonal, nonhormonal, or no contraceptive methods. Based on the use of questionnaires administered to the study participants, we compared sexual function in the 3 groups and more specifically among users of oral contraceptives, copper and hormonal intrauterine devices, and barrier methods. OUTCOMES Participants completed 4 questionnaires to assess sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index), sexual satisfaction (Sexual Quotient-Feminine Version), quality of life (12-item Medical Outcomes Short Form Health Survey), and anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). RESULTS This study included 315 women classified into 3 groups on the basis of contraceptive use: 161 in the hormonal contraceptives group (median [interquartile range] age, 24 [23-28] years), 97 in the nonhormonal contraceptives group (age 26 [23-30] years), and 57 in the no contraceptive methods group (age 28 [24-35] years). Dyspareunia prevalence showed no difference between the groups. In the quality of life domain, compared with women in the nonhormonal contraceptive group, women in the hormonal contraceptive group were younger and had lower sexual function satisfaction, reduced arousal, and heightened pain (P < .05), as well as higher anxiety and depression levels (P = .03, for both), increased pain (P = .01), and poorer overall health (P = .01). No difference was found between these groups in other quality of life domains. Regarding contraceptive methods, women using copper intrauterine devices had better sexual function, including higher rates of arousal and lower anxiety, than women using oral contraceptives (P < .05). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The results of this study highlight worse sexual function and sexual satisfaction and higher levels of anxiety and depression in women using hormonal contraceptive methods than in women using nonhormonal methods. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The findings of this study strengthen the evidence of differences in sexual function between women using oral contraceptives and those using copper intrauterine devices. Sexual function was also compared among users of oral contraceptives, copper and hormonal intrauterine devices, and barrier methods. However, less frequently used contraceptive methods, such as hormonal injections and vaginal rings, could not be compared in this sample. CONCLUSION Women using hormonal contraceptive methods were younger, had lower sexual function and satisfaction, and experienced higher anxiety and depression levels than women using nonhormonal contraceptive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Andrade Déa
- Department of Physiotherapy, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná 86038-350, Brazil
| | | | - Camile Ludovico Zamboti
- Department of Physiotherapy, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná 86038-350, Brazil
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Science and Technology of Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Presidente Prudente, Sao Paulo 19060-900, Brazil
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Caruso S, Caruso G, Iraci Sareri M, Di Guardo F, Incognito GG, Palumbo M. Correlation of sexual desire with sexual hormone binding globulin and free androgen index in women using combined contraceptives. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2024; 29:103-108. [PMID: 38588444 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2024.2332302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To correlate the sexual desire levels with sexual hormone binding globulin and free androgen index in women taking different types of hormonal contraceptives (HCs) containing ethinylestradiol (EE), oestradiol valerate (E2V), 17β-oestradiol (E2), or estetrol (E4), combined or in phasic formulation with different progestogens having antiandrogenic properties. METHODS Three hundred and sixty-seven women (age range 18-46) participated in the study. SHBG and total testosterone (TT) were measured, and the Free Androgen Index (FAI) was calculated. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) questionnaires were used to assess sexual function and distress, respectively. RESULTS The highest SHBG values and the lowest FAIs were obtained of women on HCs containing EE than those of women on HCs containing E2V/17β E2 or E4 (p < 0.001). Desire scores and FSFI total scores were lower in women on HCs with EE than in those using HCs containing E2V, 17β E2, or E4 (p ≤ 0.001). The women who were on HCs containing EE reported FSDS levels higher than those containing all the other types of oestrogen. Finally, sexual desire and FSFI total scores had a negative correlation with the SHBG values and a positive correlation with FAI percentage (p ≤ 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS A minority of women using HCs with EE might experience a decreased sexual desire. This was not observed in women on HCs containing E2V, 17 E2, or E4. To avoid HC discontinuation, due to sexual desire reduction, HCs having minor antiandrogenic effects could be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Caruso
- Research Center for the PreDiCT Study -Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Iraci Sareri
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Di Guardo
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giosuè Giordano Incognito
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Palumbo
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Kullik L, Stork M, Kiel A, Kellmann M, Jakowski S. The prevalence of menstrual cycle symptoms and their association with mental health and sleep in German exercising women and athletes. J Sci Med Sport 2024; 27:362-367. [PMID: 38503666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2024.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Menstrual cycle symptoms are very common in female athletes. However, more evidence about the association between menstrual cycle characteristics and symptoms with sleep and mental health in athletes needs to be gathered. This study aimed to examine this association in German exercising women and athletes. DESIGN 322 women (mean age: 23.13 ± 4.36) participated in a cross-sectional study. The survey included the Menstrual Symptom index (MSi), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Athletes Sleep Behavior Questionnaire (ASBQ). Additionally, demographic, sport-specific data and further menstrual cycle characteristics were examined. Multiple regression models were used for the statistical analyses. RESULTS The MSi score demonstrated a highly significant (p < 0.001) positive association with Depression, Anxiety, Stress, PSQI, and ASBQ. The most prevalent menstrual cycle symptoms were cravings/increased appetite, mood changes/anxiety, and tiredness/fatigue. A difference between individual and team sport athletes could not be found. Moreover, there was no association between the constructs and menses length, irregularity, or heaviness of bleeding. CONCLUSIONS Menstrual cycle symptoms occur very frequently in female athletes. In this study, they were related to mental health, sleep quality, and sleep behavior, regardless of the cycle phase. This evidence demonstrates the relevance of considering the menstrual cycle and menstrual symptoms in future studies with female athletes and in sport practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Kullik
- Department of Sport Psychology, Faculty of Sport Science, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany. https://twitter.com/kullik95
| | - Moritz Stork
- Department of Sport Psychology, Faculty of Sport Science, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
| | - Asja Kiel
- Department of Sport Psychology, Faculty of Sport Science, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
| | - Michael Kellmann
- Department of Sport Psychology, Faculty of Sport Science, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany; School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Sarah Jakowski
- Department of Sport Psychology, Faculty of Sport Science, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
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Niemann J, Wicherski L, Glaum L, Schenk L, Stadler G, Richter M. YouTube and the implementation and discontinuation of the oral contraceptive pill: A mixed-method content analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302316. [PMID: 38787833 PMCID: PMC11125465 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women living in high-quality healthcare systems are more likely to use oral contraceptives at some point in their lives. Research findings have sparked controversial discussions about contraception in the scientific community and the media, potentially leading to higher rates of method discontinuation. Understanding the underlying motives for method discontinuation is crucial for reproductive health equity and future programming interventions. To address this question, this study aims to explore women's experiences of oral contraceptive use and discontinuation on YouTube. METHODS A concurrent explanatory mixed-methods design was used to conduct content analysis of German YouTube videos. The information from 175 videos of 158 individuals was extracted through quantitative descriptive content analysis. Twenty-one individuals were included in the qualitative content analysis. FINDINGS The body was a recurring theme in the pill biographies. Women described, for example, bodily sensations as reasons for taking and stopping the pill. They also described positive and negative side effects while taking the pill and after stopping. The most common side effects of taking the pill mentioned by YouTubers were mood swings (76/158), weight gain (45/158), headaches (33/158), and depressed mood (45/158). The symptoms after discontinuation reported most were facial skin impurities (108/158), decreased mood swings (47/158), hair loss (42/158), and weight loss (36/158). Overall, women overwhelmingly rated their discontinuation experience as positive (87/91). CONCLUSIONS The study identified key symptoms of oral contraceptive initiation and discontinuation by portraying the experiences of female YouTubers, adding valuable insights to the understanding of method initiation and discontinuation. Further research is needed to explore women's personal experiences with method discontinuation beyond the YouTube platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Niemann
- Institute for Medical Sociology and Rehabilitation Science, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Sociology, Institute of Medical Sociology (IMS), Martin Luther University Halle Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Centre for Health Sciences, Halle (Saale), Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
| | - Lea Wicherski
- Osnabrück University, School of Human Sciences, Osnabrück, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Lisa Glaum
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Sociology, Institute of Medical Sociology (IMS), Martin Luther University Halle Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Centre for Health Sciences, Halle (Saale), Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
| | - Liane Schenk
- Institute for Medical Sociology and Rehabilitation Science, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Getraud Stadler
- Institute for Gender Research in Medicine (GiM), Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Richter
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Medical Sociology, Institute of Medical Sociology (IMS), Martin Luther University Halle Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Centre for Health Sciences, Halle (Saale), Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Bavaria, Germany
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Bosas J, Toffol E, Pohjoranta E, Mentula MJ, Hurskainen R, Suhonen S, Heikinheimo O. Factors affecting female sexual well-being: a 5-year follow-up of a randomised clinical trial on post-abortion contraception. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 50:92-98. [PMID: 37857463 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2023-201879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual well-being is associated with general well-being. Several factors, such as overweight, infertility, anxiety and sex hormones, also play a role, but the effects of hormonal contraception remain a point of debate. We characterised the factors associated with sexual well-being in fertile-aged women following induced abortion. METHODS A 5-year follow-up of a nested, longitudinal, cohort study examining the effects of routine provision of intrauterine contraception as part of abortion care. Sexual well-being, anxiety and quality of life were assessed annually using validated questionnaires (McCoy Female Sexuality Questionnaire, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and EuroQoL), along with data on general and reproductive health, and relationship status. Of the 742 women participating in the trial, 290 (39%) provided sufficient follow-up data and were included in this study. RESULTS Based on trajectories of McCoy scores across the 5-year follow-up, two groups were identified: those with stable and higher (n=223, 76.9%) and those with declining sexual well-being (n=67, 23.1%). Women in the group of declining sexual well-being had significantly higher levels of anxiety and lower quality of life at all time points. They also had chronic diseases more often and were less happy in their relationships. No differences were found in method of contraception when classified as hormonal versus non-hormonal, or long-acting versus short-acting reversible contraception. CONCLUSIONS Lower anxiety and higher quality of life are associated with stable and higher sexual well-being. Method of contraception or relationship status are not associated with sexual well-being during long-term follow-up in fertile-aged women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Bosas
- University of Helsinki Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elena Toffol
- University of Helsinki Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elina Pohjoranta
- University of Helsinki Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki, Finland
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maarit J Mentula
- University of Helsinki Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki, Finland
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Satu Suhonen
- University of Helsinki Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Oskari Heikinheimo
- University of Helsinki Faculty of Medicine, Helsinki, Finland
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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Mijatovic V, Vercellini P. Towards comprehensive management of symptomatic endometriosis: beyond the dichotomy of medical versus surgical treatment. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:464-477. [PMID: 38199787 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Except when surgery is the only option because of organ damage, the presence of suspicious lesions, or the desire to conceive, women with endometriosis-associated pain often face a choice between medical and surgical treatment. In theory, the description of the potential benefits and potential harms of the two alternatives should be standardized, unbiased, and based on strong evidence, enabling the patient to make an informed decision. However, doctor's opinion, intellectual competing interests, local availability of specific services and (mis)information obtained from social media, and online support groups can influence the type of advice given and affect patients' choices. This is compounded by the paucity of robust data from randomized controlled trials, and the anxiety of distressed women who are eager to do anything to alleviate their disabling symptoms. Vulnerable patients are more likely to accept the suggestions of their healthcare provider, which can lead to unbalanced and physician-centred decisions, whether in favour of either medical or surgical treatment. In general, treatments should be symptom-orientated rather than lesion-orientated. Medical and surgical modalities appear to be similarly effective in reducing pain symptoms, with medications generally more successful for severe dysmenorrhoea and surgery more successful for severe deep dyspareunia caused by fibrotic lesions infiltrating the posterior compartment. Oestrogen-progestogen combinations and progestogen monotherapies are generally safe and well tolerated, provided there are no major contraindications. About three-quarters of patients with superficial peritoneal and ovarian endometriosis and two-thirds of those with infiltrating fibrotic lesions are ultimately satisfied with their medical treatment although the remainder may experience side effects, which may result in non-compliance. Surgery for superficial and ovarian endometriosis is usually safe. When fibrotic infiltrating lesions are present, morbidity varies greatly depending on the skill of the individual surgeon, the need for advanced procedures, such as bowel resection and ureteral reimplantation, and the availability of expert colorectal surgeons and urologists working together in a multidisciplinary approach. The generalizability of published results is adequate for medical treatment but very limited for surgery. Moreover, on the one hand, hormonal drugs induce disease remission but do not cure endometriosis, and symptom relapse is expected when the drugs are discontinued; on the other hand, the same drugs should be used after lesion excision, which also does not cure endometriosis, to prevent an overall cumulative symptom and lesion recurrence rate of 10% per postoperative year. Therefore, the real choice may not be between medical treatment and surgery, but between medical treatment alone and surgery plus postoperative medical treatment. The experience of pain in women with endometriosis is a complex phenomenon that is not exclusively based on nociception, although the role of peripheral and central sensitization is not fully understood. In addition, trauma, and especially sexual trauma, and pelvic floor disorders can cause or contribute to symptoms in many individuals with chronic pelvic pain, and healthcare providers should never take for granted that diagnosed or suspected endometriosis is always the real, or the sole, origin of the referred complaints. Alternative treatment modalities are available that can help address most of the additional causes contributing to symptoms. Pain management in women with endometriosis may be more than a choice between medical and surgical treatment and may require comprehensive care by a multidisciplinary team including psychologists, sexologists, physiotherapists, dieticians, and pain therapists. An often missing factor in successful treatment is empathy on the part of healthcare providers. Being heard and understood, receiving simple and clear explanations and honest communication about uncertainties, being invited to share medical decisions after receiving detailed and impartial information, and being reassured that a team member will be available should a major problem arise, can greatly increase trust in doctors and transform a lonely and frustrating experience into a guided and supported journey, during which coping with this chronic disease is gradually learned and eventually accepted. Within this broader scenario, patient-centred medicine is the priority, and whether or when to resort to surgery or choose the medical option remains the prerogative of each individual woman.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velja Mijatovic
- Department of Gynaecology & Reproductive Medicine, Academic Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi and Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
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Rosato E, Sciarra F, Minnetti M, Degjoni A, Venneri MA. Clinical management of androgen excess and defect in women. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2024; 19:21-35. [PMID: 37953607 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2279537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hyperandrogenism and hypoandrogenism are complex disorders involving multiple-organ systems. While androgen excess is a well-characterized condition, androgen deficiency still needs diagnostic criteria, as there are no specific cutoffs. AREAS COVERED We highlight the most recent findings on the role of androgens in female pathophysiology, investigating clinically relevant conditions of androgen insufficiency or excess throughout a woman's life, and their possible therapeutic management. EXPERT OPINION Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) should be considered as first-line therapy for the management of menstrual irregularity and/or clinical hyperandrogenism in adolescents with a clear diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). There are limited evidence-based data regarding specific types or doses of COCs for management of PCOS in women; however, the lowest effective estrogen dose should be considered for treatment. Despite evidence regarding safety, efficacy, and clinical use, testosterone therapy has not been approved for women by most regulatory agencies for treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). The long-term safety for treatments with testosterone is still to be evaluated, and this review highlights the need for more research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Rosato
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sciarra
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Minnetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Anisa Degjoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mary Anna Venneri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Brouillard A, Davignon LM, Turcotte AM, Marin MF. Morphologic alterations of the fear circuitry: the role of sex hormones and oral contraceptives. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1228504. [PMID: 38027091 PMCID: PMC10661904 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1228504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endogenous sex hormones and oral contraceptives (OCs) have been shown to influence key regions implicated in fear processing. While OC use has been found to impact brain morphology, methodological challenges remain to be addressed, such as avoiding selection bias between OC users and non-users, as well as examining potential lasting effects of OC intake. Objective We investigated the current and lasting effects of OC use, as well as the interplay between the current hormonal milieu and history of hormonal contraception use on structural correlates of the fear circuitry. We also examined the role of endogenous and exogenous sex hormones within this network. Methods We recruited healthy adults aged 23-35 who identified as women currently using (n = 62) or having used (n = 37) solely combined OCs, women who never used any hormonal contraceptives (n = 40), or men (n = 41). Salivary endogenous sex hormones and current users' salivary ethinyl estradiol (EE) were assessed using liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry. Using structural magnetic resonance imaging, we extracted surface-based gray matter volumes (GMVs) and cortical thickness (CT) for regions of interest of the fear circuitry. Exploratory whole-brain analyses were conducted with surface-based and voxel-based morphometry methods. Results Compared to men, all three groups of women exhibited a larger GMV of the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, while only current users showed a thinner ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Irrespective of the menstrual cycle phase, never users exhibited a thicker right anterior insular cortex than past users. While associations with endogenous sex hormones remain unclear, we showed that EE dosage in current users had a greater influence on brain anatomy compared to salivary EE levels and progestin androgenicity, with lower doses being associated with smaller cortical GMVs. Discussion Our results highlight a sex difference for the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex GMV (a fear-promoting region), as well as a reduced CT of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (a fear-inhibiting region) specific to current OC use. Precisely, this finding was driven by lower EE doses. These findings may represent structural vulnerabilities to anxiety and stress-related disorders. We showed little evidence of durable anatomical effects, suggesting that OC intake can (reversibly) affect fear-related brain morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Brouillard
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Quebec in Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lisa-Marie Davignon
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Quebec in Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Marie-France Marin
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Quebec in Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Albawardi I, Alqahtani AH, Aljamea DA, Aljaafari SA, Aldulijan FA, Almuhaidib SR, Elamin M, Al Qahtani NH. Hormonal Contraception Use and Depression Among Women in Saudi Arabia. J Multidiscip Healthc 2022; 15:1677-1688. [PMID: 35959235 PMCID: PMC9363045 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s371203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To estimate the prevalence of depression amongst hormonal and non-hormonal contraception users, and the risk factors associated with depression in the sample. Patients and Methods This is a community-based cross-sectional study conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from October to November 2021, covering all regions of Saudi Arabia. All participants were women, living in Saudi Arabia, ≥21 years old and ≤45 years old, using a contraceptive method, and with no established history of depression. Results A total of 4853 out of 18,596 met our criteria and were included in this study. Among all sample groups, 29% had moderate to severe depression. Rates of depression and association studies’ results in women using hormonal were higher than those who use non-hormonal birth control methods. Psychiatric disorders, medical illnesses, substance use and depressogenic medication use were all associated with depression in both hormonal and non-hormonal contraception users. Conclusion The current study shows high prevalence of depression amongst hormonal contraceptive users compared to non-hormonal contraceptive users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Albawardi
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: Ibrahim Albawardi, King Fahad University Hospital, Office 155, Building 200, Alburaq Street, Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia, Tel/Fax +966138966877. Ex.: 1554, Email
| | - Abdullah H Alqahtani
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dana A Aljamea
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara A Aljaafari
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fajar A Aldulijan
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Seereen R Almuhaidib
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Elamin
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nourah H Al Qahtani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Concas A, Serra M, Porcu P. How hormonal contraceptives shape brain and behavior: A review of preclinical studies. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:101017. [PMID: 35843303 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Steroid hormones influence different aspects of brain function, including development, neurogenesis, neuronal excitability, and plasticity, thus affecting emotional states, cognition, sociality, and reward. In women, their levels fluctuate across the lifespan and through the reproductive stages but are also altered by exogenous administration of hormonal contraceptives (HC). HC are widely used by women throughout their fertile life both for contraceptive and therapeutic benefits. However, awareness of their effects on brain function and behavior is still poorly appreciated, despite the emerging evidence of their action at the level of the central nervous system. Here, we summarize results obtained in preclinical studies, mostly conducted in intact female rodents, aimed at investigating the neurobiological effects of HC. HC can alter neuroactive hormones, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, as well as emotional states, cognition, social and sexual behaviors. Animal studies provide insights into the neurobiological effects of HC with the aim to improve women's health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Concas
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mariangela Serra
- Department of Life and Environment Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Patrizia Porcu
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy.
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