The effects of Implanon® on menstrual bleeding patterns

Use of etonogestrel subcutaneous implant in Sardinia, Italy: women's compliance and satisfaction

PURPOSE OF THE ARTICLE

The main aim of the study was to analyze the population of women who used etonogestrel implant, the reason that led them to this type of contraception, and the degree of compliance with it. Materials and methods: We carried out a retrospective study on women who had etonogestrel subcutaneous implant placed (n°47) over a 6-year period (2015-2021). We submitted the women a series of questions by telephone questionnaire (range 10-72 months after placements, mean 40 months) that investigated the comorbidities and side effects related to etonogestrel implant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We carried out a retrospective study on women who had etonogestrel subcutaneous implant placed (n°47) over a 6-year period (2015-2021). We submitted the women a series of questions by telephone questionnaire (range 10-72 months after placements, mean 40 months) that investigated the comorbidities and side effects related to etonogestrel implant.

RESULTS

The average age of placement of etonogestrel implant was 33.8 ± 3.45 years. As regards level of education, 16/47 (34%) of the women had a university degree, 21/47 (44%) had a high school diploma and 10/47 (21%) had a secondary school diploma. The 12/47 (25%) of the women were, at the time of the counselling, unemployed and only 8% did not use in the past contraceptive methods other than etonogestrel implant. The 92% of women choose etonogestrel implant because it offered safe, comfortable and long-lasting contraception. Among the main side effects evaluated, we reported spotting in 24 out of 47 (51%), headache in 4 out of 47 (8.5%). The 85% of the women recommended etonogestrel implant to their friends as a contraceptive method, with an approval rating for the implant, expressed a rating from 1 to 10 with the mean that was 7.79, the median 8.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results are of interest because they derive from a region of Italy in which the Long acting reversible contraception (LARC) is strongly underused. Etonogestrel implant was a safe and effective, long-acting, reversible hormonal contraception (LARC) and majority of women recommended the etonogestrel implant to their friends as a contraceptive method.

Offering extended use of the contraceptive implant via an implementation science framework: a qualitative study of clinicians' perceived barriers and facilitators

BACKGROUND

The etonogestrel contraceptive implant is currently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prevention of pregnancy up to 3 years. However, studies that suggest efficacy up to 5 years. There is little information on the prevalence of extended use and the factors that influence clinicians in offering extended use. We investigated clinician perspectives on the barriers and facilitators to offering extended use of the contraceptive implant.

METHODS

Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), we conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews. Participants were recruited from a nationwide survey study of reproductive health clinicians on their knowledge and perspective of extended use of the contraceptive implant. To optimize the diversity of perspectives, we purposefully sampled participants from this study. We used content analysis and consensual qualitative research methods to inform our coding and data analysis. Themes arose deductively and inductively.

RESULTS

We interviewed 20 clinicians including advance practice clinicians, family medicine physicians, obstetrician/gynecologist and complex family planning sub-specialists. Themes regarding barriers and facilitators to extended use of the contraceptive implant emerged. Barriers included the FDA approval for 3 years and clinician concern about liability in the context of off-label use of the contraceptive implant. Educational materials and a champion of extended use were facilitators.

CONCLUSIONS

There is opportunity to expand access to extended use of the contraceptive implant by developing educational materials for clinicians and patients, identifying a champion of extended use, and providing information on extended use prior to replacement appointments at 3 years.

The impact of embedment of the side arms of 52 mg levonorgestrel-intrauterine device on bleeding and pain: A prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to analyse the impact of embedment of side arms of the levonorgestrel 52 mg intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) in the myometrium (assessed by three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound (3D-TVUS)) on uterine bleeding and pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study in a large Dutch teaching hospital between February 2015 and December 2016. Participants over 18 years of age who selected a LNG-IUD for contraception or because of heavy menstrual bleeding were eligible for inclusion. Six weeks after insertion, a 3D-TVUS was performed to diagnose embedment of the side arms. At that moment participants filled in questionnaires about their bleeding pattern and pelvic pain. Menstruation patterns 'no bleeding', 'regular menstruation', 'sometimes a day of spotting (maximum once a week)' were classified as favourable bleeding pattern. Menstruation patterns 'heavy menstrual bleeding', 'several days a week bleeding days', 'several days a week spotting days', 'continuously spotting', and 'completely irregular cycle' were classified as unfavourable bleeding pattern. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95 %-confidence intervals (CI). The multivariate analysis included endometrial thickness, reason for insertion and parity. The analysis of pelvic pain additionally included previous insertion.

RESULTS

A total of 220 participants were evaluated for the study of whom 176 returned the questionnaires. Embedment of the side arms was observed in 43 of the 176 responding participants (24.4 %). Favourable bleeding pattern was reported by 25/43 (58.1 %) participants with embedment and 53/133 (39.8 %) participants without embedment (ORadj 1.8, 95 % CI 0.9-3.9). Pelvic pain was reported by 4/43 (9.3 %) participants with embedment and 24/133 (18.1 %) participants without embedment (ORadj 0.3; CI 0.1-1.2).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that embedment of the side arms of the LNG-IUD in the myometrium assessed by 3D-TVUS is not associated with a unfavourable bleeding pattern nor pelvic pain six weeks after insertion. From this point of view, we do not recommend to perform standard 3D-TVUS for the purpose of excluding or demonstrating embedment.

The association between BMI and continuity of etonogestrel (ENG)-releasing implant

OBJECTIVE

The etonogestrel-releasing implant is a long-acting reversible contraception that is recommended by the Food and Drug Administration for 3 years and has been proven to be highly effective and convenient. Adverse effects including irregular bleeding patterns, weight gain, and acne are reported to be the main reasons for treatment discontinuation. The aim of this study is to learn the association between body mass index (BMI, calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters) and the incidence of side effects and adherence to treatment.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study, conducted at a single university-affiliated medical clinic, including all women who underwent etonogestrel-releasing implant (Nexplanon®; New Jersey, USA, Organon USA Inc., Merck and Co) insertion between January 2019 and December 2021. Cases where abnormalities were reported during the insertion procedure or missing data were excluded from the study. Information on patients' demographic, medical history, obstetric and gynecological history, and follow-up was collected from electronic medical files. The primary outcome was defined as the rate of implant removal in the different obesity classes. Data are presented as median and interquartile range. The study was approved by institutional review board.

RESULTS

The study population included 1318 women, of whom 466 (35%) requested early removal of the implant. Women's demographic and clinical characteristics were comparable between women who requested early removal and those with full-length treatment. The median time for early removal was 12 (6-20) months from insertion. Irregular bleeding was the most frequent reason for early removal in both groups and was more than twice as prevalent in the early removal group (239 [51.29%] vs 193 [22%], P = 0.001). The early removal group had fewer obese women (BMI ≥30) compared with women who had full-length treatment (163 [31.8%] vs 350 [68.2%], P = 0.03), with comparable rates of class 3 obesity women (BMI ≥40) (P = 0.68). Multi-regression logistic analysis including age, BMI, parity and side effects found that the presence of side effects is the only independent predictor significantly associated with early implant removal (B = 1.74, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Continuation of etonogestrel-releasing implant contraception treatment was associated with the presence of side effects that were more often reported in non-obese women. BMI was not found to be a significant factor influencing adherence to treatment.

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.

The role of progestin subdermal implant in the management of adenomyosis: a systematic review

PURPOSE

The long-acting reversible contraception progestin subdermal implant (ENG implant) may be effective to improve endometriosis-related symptoms. Since adenomyosis is a histopathological form of endometriosis, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ENG implant in adenomyosis management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Electronic search in Medline, Scopus, Embase databases and Google Scholar using combinations of the following keywords: Progestin; subdermal implant; Implanon; Nexplanon; Adenomyosis; Endometriosis.

RESULTS

Out of 889 articles in the initial database, 5 prospective observational studies were eligible for inclusion in our literature review. Our review involving 152 participants found a significant reduction in pelvic pain and dysmenorrhoea (baseline median VAS score ranged from 10 to 7.62 before implantation vs VAS score ranged from 1.81 to 0.1 after implantation) as well as an increase in the levels of haemoglobin after implantation of the device (from 86 g/L to 129 g/L after implantation). Moreover, the improvement may be sustained throughout the long-term follow-up visits (until 36 months). The most common adverse events were changes in bleeding patterns which were tolerable in most cases.

CONCLUSION

ENG implant may be a relevant and promising medical option in the management of adenomyosis. Nevertheless, randomised controlled trials and prospective studies with larger cohorts are needed to confirm the potential role of ENG implant in the management of adenomyosis.

Contraception and sterilization selection at delivery among pregnant patients with malignancy

INTRODUCTION

Since malignancy during pregnancy is uncommon, information regarding contraception selection or sterilization at delivery is limited. The objective of this study was to examine the type of long-acting reversible contraception or surgical sterilization procedure chosen by pregnant patients with malignancy at delivery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study queried the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's National Inpatient Sample in the USA. The study population was vaginal and cesarean deliveries in a hospital setting from January 2017 to December 2020. Pregnant patients with breast cancer (n = 1605), leukemia (n = 1190), lymphoma (n = 1120), thyroid cancer (n = 715), cervical cancer (n = 425) and melanoma (n = 400) were compared with 14 265 319 pregnant patients without malignancy. The main outcome measures were utilization of long-acting reversible contraception (subdermal implant or intrauterine device) and performance of permanent surgical sterilization (bilateral tubal ligation or bilateral salpingectomy) during the index hospital admission for delivery, assessed with a multinomial regression model controlling for clinical, pregnancy and delivery characteristics.

RESULTS

When compared with pregnant patients without malignancy, pregnant patients with breast cancer were more likely to proceed with bilateral salpingectomy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.30) or intrauterine device (aOR 1.91); none received the subdermal implant. Pregnant patients with leukemia were more likely to choose a subdermal implant (aOR 2.22), whereas those with lymphoma were more likely to proceed with bilateral salpingectomy (aOR 1.93) and bilateral tubal ligation (aOR 1.76). Pregnant patients with thyroid cancer were more likely to proceed with bilateral tubal ligation (aOR 2.21) and none received the subdermal implant. No patients in the cervical cancer group selected long-acting reversible contraception, and they were more likely to proceed with bilateral salpingectomy (aOR 2.08). None in the melanoma group chose long-acting reversible contraception. Among pregnant patients aged <30, the odds of proceeding with bilateral salpingectomy were increased in patients with breast cancer (aOR 3.01), cervical cancer (aOR 2.26) or lymphoma (aOR 2.08). The odds of proceeding with bilateral tubal ligation in pregnant patients aged <30 with melanoma (aOR 5.36) was also increased.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this nationwide assessment in the United States suggest that among pregnant patients with malignancy, the preferred contraceptive option or method of sterilization at time of hospital delivery differs by malignancy type.

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding in Adolescents with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome/Hypermobile-Type Ehlers-Danlos: A Review

Heavy menstrual bleeding has a high prevalence and is well documented in adult patients with hypermobile-type Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, but there is limited research surrounding work-up and treatment for the adolescent population. Excessive menstrual blood loss can significantly interfere with emotional and physical quality of life. A provider should acquire a comprehensive medical and menstrual history and focused physical examination, as well as baseline laboratory studies, to determine the presence of anemia or underlying bleeding disorder. Use of a pictorial blood assessment chart may be considered to help quantify the amount of bleeding. Treatment to reduce heavy menstrual flow and referral to specialty care should be initiated swiftly to improve quality of life for this population. [Pediatr Ann. 2024;53(3):e104-e108.].

Advances in long-acting slow effective release antiretroviral therapies for treatment and prevention of HIV infection

Adherence to daily oral antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a barrier to both treatment and prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. To overcome limitations of life-long daily regimen adherence, long-acting (LA) injectable antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, nanoformulations, implants, vaginal rings, microarray patches, and ultra-long-acting (ULA) prodrugs are now available or in development. These medicines enable persons who are or at risk for HIV infection to be treated with simplified ART regimens. First-generation LA cabotegravir, rilpivirine, and lenacapavir injectables and a dapivirine vaginal ring are now in use. However, each remains limited by existing dosing intervals, ease of administration, or difficulties in finding drug partners. ULA ART regimens provide an answer, but to date, such next-generation formulations remain in development. Establishing the niche will require affirmation of extended dosing, improved access, reduced injection volumes, improved pharmacokinetic profiles, selections of combination treatments, and synchronization of healthcare support. Based on such needs, this review highlights recent pharmacological advances and a future treatment perspective. While first-generation LA ARTs are available for HIV care, they remain far from ideal in meeting patient needs. ULA medicines, now in advanced preclinical development, may close gaps toward broader usage and treatment options.

Management of women with abnormal uterine bleeding: Clinical practice guidelines of the French National College of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians (CNGOF)

OBJECTIVE

To provide French guidelines for the management of women with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB).

DESIGN

A consensus committee of 26 experts was formed. A formal conflict-of-interest policy was developed at the beginning of the process and enforced throughout. The entire guidelines process was conducted independently of any industry funding (i.e. pharmaceutical or medical device companies). The authors were advised to follow the rules of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE®) system to guide assessment of quality of evidence. The potential drawbacks of making strong recommendations in the presence of low-quality evidence were emphasized.

METHODS

The last guidelines from the Collège National des Gynécologues et Obstétriciens Français on the management of women with AUB were published in 2008. The literature seems now sufficient for an update. The committee studied questions within 7 fields (diagnosis; adolescents; idiopathic AUB; endometrial hyperplasia and polyps; type 0-2 fibroids; type 3 or higher fibroids; and adenomyosis). Each question was formulated in a PICO (Patients, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) format and evidence profiles were compiled. The GRADE® methodology was applied to the literature review and the formulation of recommendations.

RESULTS

The experts' synthesis work and the application of the GRADE method resulted in 36 recommendations. Among the formalized recommendations, 19 are strong and 17 weak. No response was found in the literature for 14 questions. We chose to abstain from recommendations rather than providing advice based solely on expert clinical experience.

CONCLUSIONS

The 36 recommendations make it possible to specify the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for various clinical situations practitioners encounter, from the simplest to the most complex.

[Long-Term Reversible Contraception in Adolescence: The Reality of a Tertiary Pediatric Hospital in Portugal]

INTRODUCTION

Contraception in adolescence is essential to prevent unwanted pregnancies, abortion and sexually transmitted diseases. The use of longacting reversible contraceptive methods (LARCs) has been highly recommended due to their efficacy since they are user independent methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of LARCs in adolescence in the population of a Childhood and Adolescence Gynecology clinic, and to describe the sociodemographic characteristics of the adolescents as well as previous contraceptive practices.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis that included adolescents using LARCs, monitored in a Childhood and Adolescence Gynecology clinic of a Portuguese tertiary pediatric hospital, between June 2012 and June 2021.

RESULTS

A total of 122 adolescents were included, with a median age of 16 (11 - 18) years and 62.3% (n = 76) were sexually active. The preferred method was the subcutaneous implant, placed in 82.3% (n = 101), followed by the Levonorgestrel-Intrauterine System in 16.4% (n = 20) and the copper intrauterine device in 1.3% (n = 1). The main indications for LARCs were contraceptive needs 90.2% (n = 110), abnormal uterine bleeding during puberty in 14.8% (n = 18), dysmenorrhea in 10.7% (n = 13) and need for amenorrhea in 0.8% (n = 1). The median time of implant use was 20 (1 - 48) months and of the LNG-IUS it was 20 (1 - 36) months. The 12-month adherence rate for both was 76.2% (n = 93). The removal rate for reasons besides the expiration date was 9.8% (n = 12) in adolescents who had implants, and no LNG-IUS or copper intrauterine devices were removed. There were no pregnancies after insertion of LARCs.

CONCLUSION

Contraceptive needs were the main reason for choosing LARCs, followed by abnormal uterine bleeding during puberty management and dysmenorrhea. All these factors may contribute to the high rate of satisfaction and continuity of these methods.

Progestins of today and tomorrow

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the current literature on the multiple types and uses of progestins in reproductive healthcare.

RECENT FINDINGS

Progestins for contraceptive use are available in multiple forms, with the ongoing development of transdermal, intravaginal, and male contraception formulations. Noncontraceptive use of progestins often overlaps with contraceptive indications, which allows for simultaneous multipurpose progestin use, especially in reproductive-aged patients. More studies are needed to determine contraceptive doses of progestins used for noncontraceptive purposes. Side effect profiles of progestins are dependent on their formulation and cross-reactivity with other steroid receptors. Development of newer progestins includes manipulating pharmacologic properties to avoid undesired side effects.

SUMMARY

Progestins have multiple uses in reproductive healthcare, including contraception, menstrual suppression, endometrial protection, and hormonal replacement therapy. The development of progestins for these indications can expand therapy for people with contraindications to estrogen-based hormonal therapy.

Early Implanon discontinuation and associated factors among Implanon women users visiting public health facilities, in Kembata zone of Southern Ethiopia: An institution based cross-sectional study

Background

Contraceptive practice is the basis of fertility and plays a significant role in minimizing maternal morbidity and mortality. Implanon is one of the most effective long-acting contraceptive methods that prevents pregnancy for 3 years. Early Implanon discontinuation can lead to many negative reproductive health consequences. Therefore, this study assessed the magnitude of early Implanon discontinuation among female Implanon users visiting public health facilities to discontinue Implanon in the Kembata zone of southern Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study design was carried out from 1 March 2020 to 30 March 2020. Simple random sampling techniques were used to select 454 women who had discontinued Implanon. The data were collected using a pretested and structured questionnaire. The collected data were entered into Epi Data version-3.1 and then exported to STATA version-16 for analysis. A descriptive analysis along with bivariate and multivariate regression was performed to identify factors associated with early Implanon discontinuation. Statistical significance was declared at a p < 0.05 along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

In the present study, 438 women were interviewed, which corresponds to a response rate of 96.48%. The magnitude of early Implanon discontinuation was 56.4%, 95%CI (51.6, 61.2). Primary educational status [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.92, 95%CI (1.56, 5.46)], rural residency [AOR = 1.76, 95%CI (1.06, 2.92)], women with no history of modern contraceptive use [(AOR = 2.14, 95%CI (1.14, 4.03)], those who experienced service dissatisfaction [AOR = 3.05, 95%CI (1.52, 6.12)], women who experienced as Implanon side effect [AOR = 3.36, 95%CI (2.09, 5.42)], and women who were not appointed after insertion [(AOR = 2.17, 95%CI (1.18, 4.79)] have shown an association with early Implanon discontinuation.

Conclusion

The present study indicated that the magnitude of early Implanon discontinuation was high. Educational level, rural residency, women who experienced side effects, those who experienced service dissatisfaction, women with no history of contraceptive use, and those who missed follow-up appointments were associated with Implanon discontinuation. Family planning service providers should focus on Implanon side effects during pre-insertion counseling. The recommended intervention is to recognize modifiable factors like improving client satisfaction with the service, appointing for follow up after insertion, and providing quality family planning services.

Contraception During Perimenopause: Practical Guidance

Climacteric is by no means in itself a contraindication to safe contraception. On the contrary, there are several conditions related to the perimenopause that could benefit from the use of modern contraceptives, mainly hormonal, with the goals of avoiding unintended pregnancies and giving further possible benefits beyond contraception (menstrual cycle control, a reduction of vasomotor symptoms and menstrual migraines, a protection against bone loss, a positive oncological risk/benefit balance). This narrative review aims to provide practical guidance on their possible use in this particular life stage, both short- and long-acting reversible contraceptives, and to assist clinicians for women transitioning from contraception to their menopausal years, including the possible initiation of postmenopausal hormone therapy. Comprehensive contraceptive counselling is an essential aspect of the overall health and wellbeing of women and should be addressed with each such patient irrespective of age.

Contraceptive Counseling for the Transgender Patient Assigned Female at Birth

Although almost 0.7% of the Brazilian population identifies as transgender, there is currently no training for healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to these patients, including the discussion of reproductive planning. The use of testosterone promotes amenorrhea in the first months of use; however, this effect does not guarantee contraceptive efficacy, and, consequently, increases the risks of unplanned pregnancy. The present article is an integrative review with the objective of evaluating and organizing the approach of contraceptive counseling for the transgender population who were assigned female at birth. We used the PubMed and Embase databases for our search, as well as international guidelines on care for the transgender population. Of 88 articles, 7 were used to develop the contraceptive counseling model. The model follows the following steps: 1. Addressing the information related to the need for contraception; 2. Evaluation of contraindications to the use of contraceptive methods (hormonal and nonhormonal); and 3. Side effects and possible discomfort associated with the use of contraception. The contraceptive counseling model is composed of 18 questions that address the indications and contraindications to the use of these methods, and a flowchart to assist patients in choosing a method that suits their needs.

[Evolution of contraceptive practices in France: An overview from 2014 to 2019]

OBJECTIVES

To study the use of reimbursed contraceptive methods in France between 2014 and 2019, with an analysis of the profile of users by age group and an analysis by type of prescriber.

METHODS

We conducted a national descriptive study using data from the Assurance Maladie Open Data database on the use of contraceptive methods reimbursed in France from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2019. We analyzed the number of users by year, by age group (<20years, 20-60years), and by prescriber (liberal general practitioner, liberal gynecologist, hospital practitioner, liberal midwife).

RESULTS

In 2019, 50.1% (5,345,122) of women of childbearing age used a reimbursed contraceptive method. Hormonal oral contraception was the leading contraceptive method used (42.3%), followed by the intrauterine device (6.2%) and the implant (1.6%). Use of combined estrogen-progestogen oral contraception had been declining since 2015 (-8.1 points), to the benefit of the micro progestin pill (+9.1 points) and the copper intrauterine device (+1.4 points). Among women under 20, the hormonal implant was the second most popular contraceptive method (1.2%), followed by the copper intrauterine device (0.8%) and the hormonal intrauterine system (0.2%). Among women over 20years of age of childbearing age, the copper IUD was the second most-reimbursed contraceptive method (2.4%), followed by the hormonal intrauterine system (1.6%) and the hormonal implant (1.2%). There are disparities in prescribing practices: in 2019, 51% of prescribers were general practitioners and 97% of them prescribed hormonal oral contraception.

CONCLUSION

The contraceptive supply in France is diversifying, although oral contraception remains predominant. Disparities exist between age groups of users and there is great heterogeneity in practices among contraceptive prescribers.

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.

[Management of women with abnormal uterine bleeding: Clinical practice guidelines of the French National College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (CNGOF)]

OBJECTIVE

To provide French guidelines for the management of women with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB).

DESIGN

A consensus committee of 26 experts was formed. A formal conflict-of-interest (COI) policy was developed at the beginning of the process and enforced throughout. The entire guidelines process was conducted independently of any industrial funding (i.e. pharmaceutical, or medical devices). The authors were advised to follow the rules of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE®) system to guide assessment of quality of evidence. The potential drawbacks of making strong recommendations in the presence of low-quality evidence were emphasized.

METHODS

The last guidelines from the Collège national des gynécologues et obstétriciens français (CNGOF) on the management of women with AUB was published in 2008. The literature seems now sufficient for an update. The committee studied questions within 7 fields (diagnosis; adolescent; idiopathic AUB; endometrial hyperplasia and polyps; fibroids type 0 to 2; fibroids type 3 and more; adenomyosis). Each question was formulated in a PICO (Patients, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) format and the evidence profiles were produced. The literature review and recommendations were made according to the GRADE® methodology.

RESULTS

The experts' synthesis work and the application of the GRADE method resulted in 36 recommendations. Among the formalized recommendations, 19 present a strong agreement and 17 a weak agreement. Fourteen questions did not find any response in the literature. We preferred to abstain from recommending instead of providing expert advice.

CONCLUSIONS

The 36 recommendations made it possible to specify the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies of various clinical situations managed by the practitioner, from the simplest to the most complex.

Awareness of the non-contraceptive benefits of reversible contraceptive methods in a cohort of Brazilian women: an exploratory study

PURPOSE

We assess the awareness of Brazilian women about non-contraceptive benefits of contraceptives and compare non-health with health care providers.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a survey in Brazil using a questionnaire administered via Google Forms asking women to respond about the awareness of non-contraceptive benefits of combined oral contraceptives (COCs), depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), 52 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS), etonogestrel (ENG)-implant, copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD), and male condom.

RESULTS

We received 2,068 completed questionnaires, 720 women (34.8%) aged ≤ 29 years and 236 (11.4%) were physicians or nurses. Only one third of the respondents were aware that COC use is associated with decreased risks of ovarian and endometrial cancers; 296 (16.1%) about that the use of DMPA is associated with a decreased risk of endometrial cancer, and 253 (13.8%) were aware about that the users of the Cu-IUD present lower risk of cervical cancer. We identified significant differences between non-health care providers when compared to physicians or nurses.

CONCLUSIONS

We found low awareness regarding the associated lower risk of ovarian, endometrial and cervical cancer associated with the use of some contraceptives, evidencing the need to provide more information about the non-contraceptive benefits during training for health care providers.

The use of progestin subdermal implants in the management of endometriosis-related pain symptoms and quality of life: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the evidence for the use of progestin subdermal implants for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain symptoms and quality of life.

METHODS

A literature search of PubMed, Ovid (MEDLINE and EMBASE), and Web of Science was performed from inception to December 2020. In addition, a targeted search of cited references was also performed. Our search identified 330 articles of which 17 were deemed eligible for full-text review. Eligible studies included randomized control trials, observational studies, and case series with at least 5 cases, investigating the effect of progestin subdermal implants on endometriosis-related pain scores in women of reproductive age with a clinical, radiologic, or surgical diagnosis of endometriosis. Six articles were excluded after the full-text screen.

RESULTS

Eleven articles describing a total of 335 patients were eligible for inclusion. Across all studies, etonogestrel- and segesterone-releasing progestin subdermal implants improved VAS pain scores for cyclic pelvic pain/dysmenorrhea (VAS at baseline ranged from 6.1 to 7.5 cm and after treatment from 1.7 to 4.9 cm, n = 121), non-cyclic pelvic pain (baseline VAS 7.2-7.6 cm and after treatment 2.0-3.7 cm, n = 96) and dyspareunia (baseline VAS 1.61-8.3 cm and after treatment 1.0-7.1 cm, n = 87). Symptom improvement with the progestin subdermal implant was equivalent to treatment with depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA; average baseline VAS 6.5 and after DMPA treatment 3.0, compared to 2.0 after treatment with the implant) or the 52 mg levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS; baseline cyclic and non-cyclic pain scores 7.3 and 7.4 respectively decreased to 1.9 and 1.9 after LNG-IUS treatment). Improvements were also demonstrated in quality-of-life scores (average improvement of 36% in all domains of the Endometriosis Health Profile-30 and significant improvements in social functioning, general health, bodily pain, vitality and mental health domains on the Short Form-36 questionnaire) and sexual function (total sexual function score improved from 24 to 25.35 and 26.25 at 6 and 12 months).

CONCLUSION

Etonogestrel- and segesterone-releasing progestin subdermal implants appear to improve endometriosis-related pain symptoms and quality of life and may provide an additional component in the management of endometriosis. However, this systematic review is limited by the small sample size and heterogeneity in the data. As such, larger prospective randomized trials are needed to guide further management.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION

CRD42021225665.

Contraception Selection, Effectiveness, and Adverse Effects: A Review

IMPORTANCE

Many women spend a substantial proportion of their lives preventing or planning for pregnancy, and approximately 87% of US women use contraception during their lifetime.

OBSERVATIONS

Contraceptive effectiveness is determined by a combination of drug or device efficacy, individual fecundability, coital frequency, and user adherence and continuation. In the US, oral contraceptive pills are the most commonly used reversible method of contraception and comprise 21.9% of all contraception in current use. Pregnancy rates of women using oral contraceptives are 4% to 7% per year. Use of long-acting methods, such as intrauterine devices and subdermal implants, has increased substantially, from 6% of all contraceptive users in 2008 to 17.8% in 2016; these methods have failure rates of less than 1% per year. Estrogen-containing methods, such as combined oral contraceptive pills, increase the risk of venous thrombosis from 2 to 10 venous thrombotic events per 10 000 women-years to 7 to 10 venous thrombotic events per 10 000 women-years, whereas progestin-only and nonhormonal methods, such as implants and condoms, are associated with rare serious risks. Hormonal contraceptives can improve medical conditions associated with hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle, such as acne, endometriosis, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Optimal contraceptive selection requires patient and clinician discussion of the patient's tolerance for risk of pregnancy, menstrual bleeding changes, other risks, and personal values and preferences.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Oral contraceptive pills are the most commonly used reversible contraceptives, intrauterine devices and subdermal implants have the highest effectiveness, and progestin-only and nonhormonal methods have the lowest risks. Optimal contraceptive selection incorporates patient values and preferences.

[Contraceptive dynamics before and after the use of emergency contraception: contraceptive discontinuities and bridging]

The study's objectives were to estimate the occurrence of bridging, that is, the degree to which women that had not been using contraceptive methods began to use them in the month following the use of emergency contraception, and to estimate the rates of contraceptive discontinuity before and after the use of emergency contraception. Data collection occurred through a retrospective daily history on the use of methods in the 30 days before and after the use of emergency contraception, with 2,051 users of primary health care units in São Paulo, Aracaju (Sergipe), and Cuiabá (Mato Grosso), Brazil. The study's results showed that on average, women began their use of the method 7.6 days (SD = 2.4) after the use of emergency contraception, and that discontinuity occurred 17.1 days (SD = 7.0) after its use. Most of the women used the method continuously 30 days before (44.4%) and 30 days after (65.7%) emergency contraception. Only 8.1% of the women who had not been using the method before emergency contraception used it afterwards (bridging). Age 35 years or older (OR = 1.8; 95%CI: 1.4-2.6) was associated with the use of contraceptive methods after the use of emergency contraception among women who had not been using methods before. Residence in Aracaju (OR = 0.7; 95%CI: 0.4-0.9) showed an inverse association. In conclusion, a negligible portion of women who had not been using contraceptive methods before emergency contraception began using them afterwards (bridging).

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.

Requesting early removal of long-acting reversible contraception: a qualitative study exploring the experiences of doctors working in primary care

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) are the most effective contraceptive methods available in Australia and are effective for between 3 and 8 years. Early LARC removal (<12 months of use) can lead to gaps in contraceptive cover, exposing women to the risk of unplanned pregnancy. This study explored the experiences of doctors working in primary care (GPs and sexual health physicians) when asked to remove LARC earlier than expected. From May to July 2020, 13 doctors in Melbourne, Australia, were interviewed. Overall, participants felt conflicted about early LARC removal requests; participants highlighted the importance of respecting patient autonomy, but many felt that patients should ideally persist with LARC longer. Participants found balancing a desire to respect patients' autonomy with their clinical responsibility challenging. Doctors used reassurance, delaying tactics and treatment of side effects to try and prolong LARC use. However, this balancing act led many doctors to perceive a tension between themselves and their patients when early LARC removal was requested. Incorporating professional education addressing these issues may help primary care providers better anticipate and navigate the tension surrounding early LARC removal consultations and maintain effective doctor-patient relationships.

Etonogestrel contraceptive implant uptake and safety among solid organ transplant recipients

OBJECTIVES

To determine the safety of etonogestrel contraceptive implant use among reproductive-age women who are solid organ transplant recipients.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective cohort study with matching of reproductive-age women (14-45 years) who were solid organ transplant recipients and received care at a tertiary medical center in Denver, Colorado between 2011 and 2019. We identified cases who used an etonogestrel contraceptive implant post-transplant and then matched controls (no hormonal contraceptive use) in a 1:1 ratio according to age, transplant type, and institution. We compared pregnancy patterns, post-transplant infections, immunosuppressant therapy adjustments, and graft complications between cases and controls. We also evaluated implant-related side effect profiles and continuation rates among cases only.

RESULTS

We identified 24 cases and 24 matched controls. When compared to age and transplant organ-matched controls, contraceptive implant users were not at increased risk for adverse transplant-related outcomes. Graft rejection was the most common transplant-related complication in both groups (n = 11, 45.8% cases; n = 10, 41.7% controls). Additionally, outcomes concerning pregnancies, infections and immunosuppressant therapy changes showed no statistically significant difference between either group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the first data that the etonogestrel contraceptive implant is likely a safe contraceptive option for reproductive-age women who are solid organ transplant recipients. Given the solid organ transplant recommendations to avoid pregnancy during the first 1 to 2 years post-transplant, healthcare providers should continue to counsel solid organ transplant recipients at risk of pregnancy on the etonogestrel contraceptive implant as an effective and safe method of pregnancy prevention.

IMPLICATIONS

Reproductive age women who are solid organ transplant recipients face additional health risks with unintended pregnancies. The etonogestrel contraceptive implant remains a safe and effective method of contraception for this specific population, with no increase in graft-related complications among contraceptive implant users.

Subcutaneous etonogestrel implant combined with endometrial ablation for the treatment of adenomyosis: two case reports

Adenomyosis is a common disease that affects many premenopausal women. Two patients with adenomyosis, aged 51 and 42 years, presented with dysmenorrhea and increased menstrual volume. They refused laparoscopy or laparotomy surgery and were not eligible for the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS). The first patient underwent endometrial ablation and subcutaneous etonogestrel (ENG)-releasing implant placement at the same time. Her symptoms of dysmenorrhea and heavy menstruation improved significantly. When serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol (E2) levels suggested menopause, the ENG-releasing implant was removed. However, her abdominal pain recurred and was relieved by medication. For the second patient, an ENG-releasing implant was placed first, and her dysmenorrhea and heavy menstrual volume were relieved. However, the bleeding pattern changed from regular bleeding to prolonged bleeding, which troubled the patient. Endometrial ablation was performed 4 months later to solve the problem. Both patients had improved symptoms and were satisfied with the treatment. For patients with adenomyosis who refuse surgery and are not candidates for the use of LNG-IUS, an ENG-releasing implant combined with endometrial ablation may be an effective alternative.

Contraception in Adolescents

Adolescents are at risk for unwanted pregnancy when they become sexually active, and contraception is an important part of mitigating this risk. Use of contraceptive methods, and long-acting reversible contraceptive methods such as implants and intrauterine devices in particular, has increased among adolescents. Although sexual activity has declined and contraceptive use has increased among adolescents in the United States in recent years, the unintended pregnancy rate remains high. All of the currently available contraceptive methods are safe and effective for adolescents to use; however, adolescents may have specific concerns about side effect profiles and unscheduled bleeding that should be addressed during contraceptive counseling. Healthcare providers should prioritize adolescents' needs and preferences when approaching contraceptive counseling, and also consider the unique access and confidentiality issues that adolescents face when accessing contraception.

Advances in long-acting injectables, implants, and vaginal rings for contraception and HIV prevention

Worldwide, women face compounding reproductive health risks, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), sexually-transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancy. Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) offer combined protection against these overlapping risks in singular prevention products that offer potential for simplified use, lower burden, higher acceptability, and increased public health benefits. Over the past decade, substantial progress has been made in development of extended-release MPTs, which have further potential to grant sexual and reproductive health autonomy to women globally and to offer choice for women to accommodate varying needs during their reproductive lives. Here, we highlight the advances made in injectable, implant, and ring delivery forms, and the importance of incorporating end-user preferences early in the research and development of these products.

Applicability of ancestral genotyping in pharmacogenomic research with hormonal contraception

To compare etonogestrel pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic outcomes by both self-reported race/ethnicity and genetically determined ancestry among contraceptive implant users. We conducted a secondary analysis of our parent pharmacogenomic study of 350 implant users. We genotyped these reproductive-aged (18-45 years) women for 88 ancestry-informative single nucleotide polymorphisms. We then assigned each participant a proportion value for African (AFR), European (EUR), and Indigenous American (AMR) ancestry based on reference population data. We correlated genetic ancestry with self-reported race/ethnicity and utilized genetic ancestry proportion values as variables for previously performed association analyses with serum etonogestrel concentrations and progestin-related side effects (e.g., bothersome bleeding and subjective weight gain). We successfully estimated genetically determined ancestry for 332 participants. EUR, AFR, and AMR ancestry were each highly correlated with self-reported White/non-Hispanic race (r = 0.64, p = 4.14 × 10-40 ), Black/African American race (r = 0.88, p = 1.36 × 10-107 ), and Hispanic/Latina ethnicity (r = 0.68, p = 4.03 × 10-47 ), respectively. Neither genetically determined ancestry nor self-reported race/ethnicity were significantly associated with serum etonogestrel concentrations. AFR ancestry and self-reported Black race had similar associations with reporting monthly periods (odds ratio [OR] 2.18, p = 0.09 vs. OR 2.22, p = 0.02) and having received treatment for bothersome bleeding (OR 5.19, p = 0.005 vs. OR 4.73, p = 2.0 × 10-4 ). In multivariable logistic regression for subjective weight gain, AMR ancestry dropped out of the model in preference for self-reported Hispanic/Latina ethnicity. We found no new associations between genetically determined ancestry and contraceptive implant pharmacodynamics/pharmacokinetics. Self-reported race/ethnicity were strong surrogates for genetically determined ancestry among this population of contraceptive implant users. Our data suggest that self-reported race/ethnicity, capturing societal and cultural aspects, remain important to the investigation of progestin-related side effects.

Satisfaction With Hormonal Treatment for Menstrual Suppression in Adolescents and Young Women With Disabilities

PURPOSE

To characterize the population of adolescents and young women with special needs presenting for gynecologic care, describe usage patterns of hormonal suppression methods, and evaluate outcomes of menstrual management.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included females with special needs up to age 26 years presenting for menstrual management from 2009 to 2018. Demographic, social, and medical histories were collected to investigate effects on bleeding pattern and satisfaction with menstrual management.

RESULTS

Of 262 patients who presented for menstrual complaints, final methods of treatment included combined hormonal contraceptives (30.9%), oral progestins (19.8%), depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (8.0%), etonogestrel implant (1.9%), and levonorgestrel intrauterine device (16.8%). Eighty-five percent of patients were satisfied with their final bleeding pattern. Patients with amenorrhea or light regular periods were more likely to be satisfied than patients with heavy or irregular bleeding (p < .001). Satisfied patients tried an average of 1.4 methods, compared to 1.8 methods tried by the unsatisfied group (p = .042). By the end of the study, 26.0% were amenorrheic and 12.8% had only light spotting. Satisfaction rates were similar with each method, including 88.4% with use of combined hormonal contraceptives, 82.5% with oral progestins, 93.3% with depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, 100% with etonogestrel implant, and 83.9% with levonorgestrel intrauterine device.

CONCLUSIONS

Amenorrhea or light regular bleeding led to satisfaction in most patients. No hormonal method was superior. When counseling families and patients who present for menstrual suppression, emphasis should be placed on goals of treatment and expectations for outcomes, as light regular periods may be as acceptable as amenorrhea.

A clinical observational study on the efficacy of subcutaneous etonogestrel implants for adenomyosis in 20 patients

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of subcutaneous etonogestrel implants for adenomyosis.Methods: We conducted a clinical observational study of 20 patients suffering from adenomyosis treated with subcutaneous etonogestrel implants from August 2015 to July 2017 and followed up for 36 months. We evaluated the efficacy of subcutaneous etonogestrel implants primarily based on the following indicators: the pictorial blood loss assessment chart (PBAC) for menstrual blood volume, changes in bleeding patterns, the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score for dysmenorrhea, uterine volume, serum cancer antigen 125 (CA125) levels, hemoglobin levels and side effects.Results: During the 3 years of follow-up, subcutaneous etonogestrel implants were removed from six patients, among whom one was diagnosed with endometrial cancer, four had an increased menstrual blood volume, and one entered menopause. In total, 14 patients were treated with subcutaneous etonogestrel implants for 3 years. Among these patients, the number of patients with heavy menstrual bleeding and high PBAC and VAS scores and serum CA125 levels was significantly decreased after implantation compared with that before implantation. In the eight patients with anemia, hemoglobin levels increased gradually. However, the uterine volumes did not significantly change. Bleeding patterns were changed but were tolerable.Conclusion: Subcutaneous etonogestrel implants represent a new option for the clinical treatment of adenomyosis for patients who refuse surgery.

Digital Medical Device Companion (MyIUS) for New Users of Intrauterine Systems: App Development Study

Background

Women choosing a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system may experience changes in their menstrual bleeding pattern during the first months following placement.

Objective

Although health care professionals (HCPs) can provide counseling, no method of providing individualized information on the expected bleeding pattern or continued support is currently available for women experiencing postplacement bleeding changes. We aim to develop a mobile phone–based medical app (MyIUS) to meet this need and provide a digital companion to women after the placement of the intrauterine system.

Methods

The MyIUS app is classified as a medical device and uses an artificial intelligence–based bleeding pattern prediction algorithm to estimate a woman’s future bleeding pattern in terms of intensity and regularity. We developed the app with the help of a multidisciplinary team by using a robust and high-quality design process in the context of a constantly evolving regulatory landscape. The development framework consisted of a phased approach including ideation, feasibility and concept finalization, product development, and product deployment or localization stages.

Results

The MyIUS app was considered useful by HCPs and easy to use by women who were consulted during the development process. Following the launch of the sustainable app in selected pilot countries, performance metrics will be gathered to facilitate further technical and feature updates and enhancements. A real-world performance study will also be conducted to allow us to upgrade the app in accordance with the new European Commission Medical Device legislation and to validate the bleeding pattern prediction algorithm in a real-world setting.

Conclusions

By providing a meaningful estimation of bleeding patterns and allowing an individualized approach to counseling and discussions about contraceptive method choice, the MyIUS app offers a useful tool that may benefit both women and HCPs. Further work is needed to validate the performance of the prediction algorithm and MyIUS app in a real-world setting.

Menstruation, anticoagulation, and contraception: VTE and uterine bleeding

Abnormal or excessive menstrual bleeding affects one-third of reproductive-aged women. This number increases to 70% among women on direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). While there is some variation in frequency of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) with different DOAC options, all menstruating individuals should receive counseling about the risk of HMB at the time of DOAC initiation. Management options include progestin-only therapies such as the levonorgestrel intrauterine system and etonogestrel subdermal implant or the progestin-only pill. Combined hormonal contraceptives and depot medroxyprogesterone acetate are associated with increased rates of thrombosis in nonanticoagulated women but may be continued, or even initiated, so long as therapeutic anticoagulation is ongoing. Procedural therapies, such as endometrial ablation, uterine artery embolization, or hysterectomy, are considerations for women who have completed childbearing and for whom more conservative measures are objectionable or ineffective. Given the high rates of HMB in women on DOACs, management strategies should be discussed even before heavy bleeding is diagnosed, particularly in women who experienced HMB prior to DOAC initiation. As iron deficiency with or without anemia is a common complication of HMB, complete blood count and ferritin levels should be monitored periodically, and iron deficiency should be treated with oral or intravenous iron supplementation.

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of a copper intrauterine contraceptive system releasing ulipristal acetate: A randomized proof-of-concept study

OBJECTIVES

To assess pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic outcomes of a novel copper (Cu) intrauterine system (IUS) releasing ulipristal acetate (UPA) in healthy women.

STUDY DESIGN

In this single-blinded, randomized proof-of-concept study, ovulatory women received one of three Cu-IUSs releasing low-dose UPA (5, 20 or 40 µg/d) for 12 weeks. The study included a baseline cycle, three 4-week treatment-cycles and 2 recovery cycles. Primary outcomes included effects of the IUS on bleeding profile, ovarian function, and the occurrence of progesterone receptor modulator associated endometrial changes (PAEC). Pharmacokinetics and safety profile were secondary outcomes. We compared outcomes in treatment-cycle 3 with baseline, using generalized linear mixed models with orthogonal contrasts.

RESULTS

We randomized 29 women (5 µg/d = 10, 20 µg/d = 10, 40 µg/d = 9). All had a successful IUS insertion; 27 completed the 12-week treatment period. Compared to baseline, the mean number of bleeding-only days at treatment-cycle 3 declined by 16.7% in the 5 µg/d group (3.6 vs 3.0, p = 0.66), 40.5% in the 20 µg/d group (4.2 vs 2.5, p = 0.14), and 77% in the 40 µg/d group (3.9 vs 0.9, p = 0.002). Most women reported reduction in the amount of bleeding: 4/8, 8/10, and 7/9 for the 5 µg/d, 20 µg/d, and 40 µg/d groups, respectively. During IUS use, ovulation occurred in most cycles [5 µg/d: 23/24 (96%), 20 µg/d: 26/30 (87%), 40 µg/d: 22/27 (81%)]. The frequency of PAEC at IUS removal was 1/10 (10%), 1/10 (10%) and 4/9 (44%) in the 5 µg/d, 20 µg/d, and 4 0 µg/d groups, respectively. No serious adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduction in bleeding, low incidence of PAEC, and no serious adverse events are reassuring findings of the novel Cu-UPA-IUS. The 20 µg/d seems the lowest dose promoting a favorable bleeding profile and limiting PAEC.

IMPLICATIONS

The preliminary results of this short-term study of a novel copper intrauterine system (IUS) delivering ulipristal acetate showed reduction of bleeding, low incidence of progesterone receptor modulator associated endometrial changes, and absence of serious adverse events. By preventing copper-induced increase in bleeding, this IUS could provide a noncontraceptive benefit, especially for women with low hemoglobin.

Contraception and Reproductive Planning for Women With Cardiovascular Disease: JACC Focus Seminar 5/5

The majority of reproductive-age women with cardiovascular disease are sexually active. Early and accurate counseling by the cardiovascular team regarding disease-specific contraceptive safety and effectiveness is imperative to preventing unplanned pregnancies in this high-risk group of patients. This document, the final of a 5-part series, provides evidence-based recommendations regarding contraceptive options for women with, or at high risk for, cardiovascular disease as well as recommendations regarding pregnancy termination for women at excessive cardiovascular mortality risk due to pregnancy.

Contraception for Women With Psychiatric Disorders

OBJECTIVE

Mental health care for women includes decision support to prepare for major life events, including preconception planning for treatment during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The authors discuss contraceptive choices and their effectiveness, side effects, and impact on psychiatric symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendations, Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, provided the structure for review of contraceptive choices.

METHODS

A search of PsycINFO, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus was conducted for publications on the management of contraception for women with mental illness. Publications were selected if they included, based on the authors' consensus, data supporting evidence-based care important for psychiatrists who treat women desiring contraceptives.

RESULTS

The majority of women choose combined oral contraceptives. Although long-acting reversible contraceptives (implants, intrauterine devices) are associated with low failure rates, favorable safety profiles, rapid return to fertility after removal, and few contraindications, they are chosen by only 14% of women. All methods are acceptable for women with depression, although medical comorbidities may dictate a specific type. The impact of hormonal contraceptives on the risk for depression is controversial; however, clinical studies and randomized placebo-controlled trials of women with psychiatric disorders have generally reported similar or lower rates of mood symptoms in hormonal contraceptive users compared with nonusers. Although interactions between psychotropic drugs and contraceptives are rare, clozapine, anticonvulsants, and St. John's Wort are exceptions.

CONCLUSIONS

Proactive management of mental illness, contraception, and pregnancy improves a woman's capacity to function and optimizes her mental and reproductive health.

Effects of Etonogestrel implants on pelvic pain and menstrual flow in women suffering from adenomyosis or endometriosis: Results from a prospective, observational study

Adenomyosis and endometriosis are common causes of pelvic pain in women of reproductive age. Furthermore, adenomyosis is a major cause of menorrhagia. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Etonogestrel implants on pelvic pain and menstrual flow in women requiring long-acting reversible contraception and suffering from adenomyosis or endometriosis.One hundred women with adenomyosis or endometriosis and asking for contraception with Etonogestrel implants were enrolled in this study and were followed-up for 24 months. Patients were interviewed on pelvic pain by visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, menstrual flow by the number of sanitary napkins, menstrual bleeding pattern, weight gain, breast pain, and any other treatment side effects.Seventy four patients who were treated with Etonogestrel implants completed the 24-month follow-up in which we found a significant decrease in pelvic pain VAS scores comparing baseline scores to 6, 12, and 24 months (baseline: 6.39 ± 2.35 to 24-month: 0.17 ± 0.69, P < 0.05). The menstrual volume decreased significantly compared with that at baseline ((40.69 ± 30.92) %, P < 0.05). However, vaginal bleeding, amenorrhea, weight gain, and acne occurred after treatment in some patients.Etonogestrel implants were effective in reducing pelvic pain and menstrual flow of adenomyosis or endometriosis.

Contraception across transgender

Sexual and reproductive issues are essential elements of well-being in cisgenders as well as for the transgender population. Gender-affirming hormonal treatments (GAHTs) aim to induce phenotypical changes congruent with the desired gender and subsequent reduction of gender dysphoria. While genital surgical procedures including hysterectomy and/or adenectomy cause permanent loss of ability to conceive, GAHT may induce a varying degree of reversible loss of fertility. For these reasons, transgender men and women need to be counseled concerning contraceptive options and potential effects of treatment on reproductive function before initiating GAHT. The literature reports that sexual activity with genital involvement is performed by less than half of transgender persons who have been sexually active with a partner in the past. Testosterone (T) is the most commonly used compound in transmen and usually leads to amenorrhea within 1-12 months from first administration, however cessation of menses does not mean anovulation. Some studies report cases of unintended pregnancies among transgender men under masculinizing therapy, therefore T treatment cannot be considered a contraceptive option. Currently available contraceptive options have pros and cons in transmen and scarce literature exists on their use. The effects of GAHT on fertility in transwomen are even less well known. Prolonged estrogen exposure induces sperm suppression and morphological changes of the spermatozoa, however the degree of resulting pregnancy protection is unclear. Further research to inform the contraceptive counseling in this population is mandatory.

Predicting menstrual bleeding patterns with levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems

PURPOSE

To develop a bleeding-pattern prediction model to inform counselling on amount and regularity of bleeding after levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) placement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fixed-cluster and regression-tree models were developed using bleeding data pooled from two clinical trials of LNG-IUSs. Models were trained and cross-validated on LNG-IUS 12 data, then applied to LNG-IUS 20 and LNG-IUS 8 data. Three clusters were generated for the fixed-cluster model: predominantly amenorrhoea; predominantly spotting; and predominantly bleeding. A random-forest model predicted the future-bleeding cluster, then the probability of cycle regularity was calculated. In the regression-tree model, women were assigned by the model to less- or more-bleeding groups.

RESULTS

With LNG-IUS 12 (n = 1351) in the fixed-cluster model, 70.4% of women were correctly classified. The correct classification rates for LNG-IUS 20 (n = 216) and LNG-IUS 8 (n = 1300) were 72.2% and 69.0%. The probability distribution for cycle regularity showed regular and irregular bleeding were best separated with LNG-IUS 12 data, and less well with LNG-IUS 20 and LNG-IUS 8 data. In the regression-tree model there was high variability in the more- and less-bleeding group distributions with LNG-IUS 12 data.

CONCLUSIONS

A fixed-cluster model predicted bleeding patterns better than a regression-tree model in women using LNG-IUS, yielding understandable, informative output.

Contraception for the Cardiac Patient: a Cardiologist’s Primer

Purpose of review

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of maternal mortality in the USA. There are many cardiac conditions which pose significant risk to maternal health, and these women should be offered options to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Individualized contraceptive counseling focusing on woman’s desire for future pregnancy, comorbid conditions, and desire for hormone or non-hormonal (contraceptive) options is paramount to avoid adverse or unwanted side effects. The purpose of this review is to give general guidance on prescribing both hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptives for providers caring for women with heart disease.

Recent findings

Specific recommendation for the use of either non-hormonal or hormonal contraception requires knowledge of the types of contraceptive options available, cost, failure rates, and contraindications to use. Newer progestin-only options have become available and should be considered first-line therapy for women with cardiovascular disease.

Summary

The physiologic burden of pregnancy on the cardiovascular system can cause significant maternal morbidity and mortality for women with underlying CVD. These women should be offered safe and effective options for birth control, and both cardiology and obstetrical providers alike should possess fundamental knowledge of appropriate options.

Treatment of Unfavorable Bleeding Patterns in Contraceptive Implant Users: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether a short course of tamoxifen decreases bothersome bleeding in etonogestrel contraceptive implant users.

METHODS

In a 90-day, double-blind randomized control trial, we enrolled etonogestrel implant users with frequent or prolonged bleeding or spotting. A sample size of 40 per group (N=80) was planned to compare 10 mg tamoxifen or placebo twice daily for 7 days after 3 consecutive days of bleeding or spotting no more than once per 30 days (maximum three treatments). Participants then entered a 90-day open-label study where all received tamoxifen if needed every 30 days (maximum three treatments). Participants used text messages to record daily bleeding patterns. Our primary outcome was the total number of consecutive amenorrhea days after the first treatment. Secondary outcomes included time to bleeding or spotting cessation and restart after first treatment, overall bleeding patterns, and satisfaction.

RESULTS

From January 2017 to November 2018, 112 women enrolled in the study; 88 (79%) completed 90 days, and 79 (71%) completed 180 days. Participant characteristics did not differ between groups; mean age 24, majority identified as white not Hispanic with at least some college education. After the first treatment, the tamoxifen group reported an average of 9.8 (95% CI 4.6-15.0) more consecutive days of amenorrhea and more total days of no bleeding (amenorrhea or spotting) in the first 90 days (median 73.5 [range 24-89] vs 68 [range 11-81], P=.001). The placebo group showed a similar treatment benefit after first active use of tamoxifen in the open-label phase. At the end of the randomized study (first 90 days), women who received tamoxifen reported higher satisfaction (median 62 mm [range 16-100]) than those treated with placebo (46 mm [range 0-100]; P=.023).

CONCLUSION

A short course of tamoxifen reduces problematic bleeding and improves satisfaction in users of etonogestrel implants.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02903121.