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Hofmeyr GJ, Singata-Madliki M, Batting J, Steyn P, Thomas KK, Issema R, Beesham I, Mbatsane E, Morrison C, Deese J, Smit J, Philip N, Palanee-Phillips T, Reddy K, Onono M, Mastro TD, Baeten JM. Sexual behaviour among women using intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, a copper intrauterine device, or a levonorgestrel implant for contraception: Data from the ECHO randomized trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299802. [PMID: 38722832 PMCID: PMC11081305 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contraceptive use has complex effects on sexual behaviour and mood, including those related to reduced concerns about unintended pregnancy, direct hormonal effects and effects on endogenous sex hormones. We set out to obtain robust evidence on the relative effects of three contraceptive methods on sex behaviours, which is important for guiding contraceptive choice and future contraceptive developments. METHODS This is a secondary analysis of data from the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) randomized trial in which 7,829 HIV-uninfected women from 12 sites in Eswatini, Kenya, South Africa and Zambia seeking contraception were randomly assigned to intramuscular depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) or the levonorgestrel (LNG) implant. Data collected for 12 to 18 months using 3-monthly behavioural questionnaires that relied on recall from the preceding 3 months, were used to estimate relative risk of post-baseline sex behaviours, as well as sexual desire and menstrual bleeding between randomized groups using modified Poisson regression. RESULTS We observed small but generally consistent effects wherein DMPA-IM users reported lower prevalence of specified high risk sexual behaviours than implant users than Cu-IUD users (the '>' and '<' symbols indicate statistically significant differences): multiple sex partners 3.6% < 4.8% < 6.2% respectively; new sex partner 3.0% < 4.0% <5.3%; coital acts 16.45, 16.65, 17.12 (DMPA-IM < Cu-IUD); unprotected sex 65% < 68%, 70%; unprotected sex past 7 days 33% <36%, 37%; sex during vaginal bleeding 7.1%, 7.1% < 8.9%; no sex acts 4.1%, 3.8%, 3.4% (DMPA-IM > Cu-IUD); partner has sex with others 10% < 11%, 11%. The one exception was having any sex partner 96.5%, 96.9% < 97.4% (DMPA-IM < Cu-IUD). Decrease in sexual desire was reported by 1.6% > 1.1% >0.5%; amenorrhoea by 49% > 41% >12% and regular menstrual pattern by 26% <35% < 87% respectively. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that women assigned to DMPA-IM may have a modest decrease in libido and sexual activity relative to the implant, and the implant relative to the Cu-IUD. We found more menstrual disturbance with DMPA-IM than with the implant (and as expected, both more than the Cu-IUD). These findings are important for informing the contraceptive choices of women and policymakers and highlight the need for robust comparison of the effects of other contraceptive methods as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Justus Hofmeyr
- University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand/Walter Sisulu University, East London, South Africa
| | - Mandisa Singata-Madliki
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of Witwatersrand, University of Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
| | - Joanne Batting
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of Witwatersrand, University of Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
| | - Petrus Steyn
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Katherine K. Thomas
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Rodal Issema
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ivana Beesham
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, MatCH Research Unit (MRU), University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | | | | | - Jen Deese
- Pfizer Inc., Collegeville, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jenni Smit
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, MatCH Research Unit (MRU), University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Neena Philip
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Krishnaveni Reddy
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Maricianah Onono
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Microbiology Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, California, United States of America
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Singata-Madliki M, Smit J, Beksinska M, Balakrishna Y, Avenant C, Beesham I, Seocharan I, Batting J, Hapgood JP, Hofmeyr GJ. Effects of injectable contraception with depot medroxyprogesterone acetate or norethisterone enanthate on estradiol levels and menstrual, psychological and behavioral measures relevant to HIV risk: The WHICH randomized trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295764. [PMID: 38530848 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Observational data suggest lower HIV risk with norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN) than with depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate intramuscular (DMPA-IM) injectable contraceptives. If confirmed, a switch between these similar injectable methods would be programmatically feasible and could impact the trajectory of the HIV epidemic. We aimed in this paper to investigate the effects of DMPA-IM and NET-EN on estradiol levels, measures of depression and sexual activity and menstrual effects, relevant to HIV risk; and to ascertain whether these measures are associated with estradiol levels. METHODS This open-label trial conducted at two sites in South Africa from 5 November 2018 to 30 November 2019, randomized HIV-negative women aged 18-40 to DMPA-IM 150 mg intramuscular 12-weekly (n = 262) or NET-EN 200 mg intramuscular 8-weekly (n = 259). Data were collected on hormonal, behavioral and menstrual effects at baseline and at 25 weeks (25W). RESULTS At 25W, median 17β estradiol levels were substantially lower than at baseline (p<0.001) for both methods: 76.5 pmol/L (interquartile range (IQR) 54.1 to 104.2) in the DMPA-IM group (n = 222), and 69.8 pmol/L (IQR: 55.1 to 89.3) in the NET-EN group (n = 225), with no statistical difference between the two methods (p = 0.450). Compared with DMPA-IM, NET-EN users reported significantly less amenorrhoea, fewer sexual acts, fewer users reporting at least one act of unprotected sex, more condom use with steady partner, more days with urge for sexual intercourse, more days feeling partner does not love her, and more days feeling sad for no reason. We did not find a clear association between estradiol levels and sexual behavior, depression and menstrual effects. Behavioral outcomes suggest less sexual exposure with NET-EN than DMPA-IM. The strength of this evidence is high due to the randomized study design and the consistency of results across the outcomes measured. CONCLUSIONS Estradiol levels were reduced to postmenopausal levels by both methods. Secondary outcomes suggesting less sexual exposure with NET-EN are consistent with reported observational evidence of less HIV risk with NET-EN. A randomized trial powered for HIV acquisition is feasible and needed to answer this important question. TRIAL REGISTRATION PACTR 202009758229976.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandisa Singata-Madliki
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape Department of Health/Universities of the Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
| | - Jenni Smit
- Wits MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mags Beksinska
- Wits MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Yusentha Balakrishna
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Chanel Avenant
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ivana Beesham
- Wits MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ishen Seocharan
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Joanne Batting
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape Department of Health/Universities of the Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
| | - Janet P Hapgood
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - G Justus Hofmeyr
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape Department of Health/Universities of the Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
- Walter Sisulu University, East London, South Africa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Botswana, Gabarone, Botswana
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Hofmeyr GJ, Singata-Madliki M, Batting J, Balakrishna Y, Morroni C. Effects of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, the copper IUD and the levonorgestrel implant on testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin and free testosterone levels: ancillary study of the ECHO randomized clinical trial. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:167. [PMID: 38459552 PMCID: PMC10921651 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02990-8] [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: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robust information on relative effects of hormonal contraceptives on endogenous androgens is important for understanding beneficial and adverse effects, method choice and development of new methods. METHODS In this ancillary study at the East London, South Africa site of the ECHO multicentre randomized trial, we compared effects of three contraceptive methods on serum androgen levels among contraceptive users aged 18 to 35 years. Participants were allocated by centrally-managed randomization to open label depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), copper intrauterine device (IUD) or levonorgestrel implant. The primary outcome was free testosterone at 6 months. RESULTS We analysed stored baseline and 6-month serum samples in 398/615 participants (DMPA-IM 131/205, IUD 135/205 and implant 132/205). Median testosterone levels at baseline were DMPA-IM 0.82, IUD 0.9 and implant 0.87 nmol/L; at 6 months, DMPA 0.68 (lower than IUD, mean percentage difference 28.35, (p < 0.001), IUD 0.86 (unchanged) and implant 0.66, lower than IUD, mean percentage difference - 22.98, p < 0.001). Median SHBG levels at baseline were DMPA 52.4, IUD 50.5 and implant 55.75 nmol/L; at 6 months, DMPA 40.65, lower than IUD (mean percentage difference 21.19, p = 0.005), IUD 49.1 (unchanged), and implant 23.35 nmol/L, lower than IUD (mean percentage difference - 50.04, p < 0.001 and than DMPA (mean percentage difference - 39.45, p < 0.001). Free testosterone levels at baseline were DMPA 10, IUD 12 and implant 11 pmol/L; at 6 months, DMPA 11, less than IUD (mean percentage difference 13.53, p = 0.047), IUD 12 and implant 14, higher than IUD (mean percentage difference 14.15, p = 0.038) and than DMPA, (mean percentage difference 29.60, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This is the first randomized trial to show lower SHBG and higher free testosterone with the levonorgestrel implant than with DMPA, and contrasts with reports of increased SHBG with combined oral ethinyl estradiol/levonorgestrel use, and reduced androgens (and impaired sexual function) reported with the etonorgestrel implant. The higher free testosterone with the LNG implant might improve sexual function, mood and bone health as well as increasing side-effects such as acne and hirsutism, and is consistent with the greater sexual activity (with respect to multiple sex partners, new sex partner and unprotected sex) with the implant compared with DMPA documented in the ECHO study. ECHO TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov , number NCT02550067 15/09/2015. Contraception, or family planning, is central to the role of women in societies. It is most important to have accurate information on the relative side-effects of various contraceptive options in order to empower women to make informed choices regarding their preferred method. Hormonal contraceptives contain various forms of the female sex hormones, estrogens and/or progestogens. These hormones have direct effects on the users, as well as modifying the levels of the users' own circulating sex hormones, both the 'female' and the 'male' sex hormones (androgens). In this study, consenting participants requesting contraception, were allocated randomly to receive either depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM) a 3-monthly progestogen injection, the copper intrauterine device (IUD), a non-hormonal contraceptive inserted within the womb, or the levonorgestrel implant, a device placed under the skin which releases a progestogen for 5 years. We measured the participants' androgen levels after 6 months, and found for the first time that the active form of testosterone (free testosterone) was 29% higher with the implant than with DMPA-IM. The level with the IUD was intermediate, and significantly different from the other two methods. This finding is relevant to the effects experienced by users of these methods, because free testosterone has effects on sexual function, bone health and mood, as well as on conditions such as acne and hair distribution patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Justus Hofmeyr
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Botswana, Notwane Rd, Gaborone, Botswana.
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Effective Care Research Unit, Walter Sisulu University, East London, South Africa.
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape Department of Health, Bisho, South Africa.
| | - Mandisa Singata-Madliki
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of Fort Hare, Church St, East London, South Africa
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Joanne Batting
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of Fort Hare, Church St, East London, South Africa
| | - Yusentha Balakrishna
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Chelsea Morroni
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Balle C, Happel AU, Heffron R, Jaspan HB. Contraceptive effects on the cervicovaginal microbiome: Recent evidence including randomized trials. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13785. [PMID: 37881121 PMCID: PMC10696626 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Until recently, most data regarding the effects of non-barrier contraceptives on the mucosal microbiome have derived from observational studies, which are potentially biased due to behavioral confounders that may mask their true biological effects. METHOD OF STUDY This narrative review summarises recent evidence of the effect of contraceptives on the cervicovaginal microbiome, emphasising data obtained through randomized trials. RESULTS Good quality data describe that initiation of long-acting progestin-only contraceptives, including levonorgestrel (LNG)-implant and the injectables depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM) and norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN) do not alter the mucosal microbial environment. Likewise, no strong evidence exists that the use of oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) is associated with alterations of the vaginal microbiome or increased risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Limited data on the effect of intravaginal rings (IVRs) on the mucosal environment exist and show conflicting effects on the vaginal microbiota. Copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) initiation has been associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) acquisition, including in a randomized trial. LNG-IUDs may have similar affects but need to be evaluated further. CONCLUSION Different synthetic hormones have divergent effects on the microbiome and therefore novel hormonal methods need to be rigorously evaluated. Furthermore, the addition of antiretrovirals into multipurpose technologies may alter the effects of the hormonal component. There is thus a critical need to improve our understanding of the biological effects of contraceptive hormones and delivery methods with different pharmacokinetic and chemical properties on the mucosal microbiome in rigorous trials, to inform the development of novel contraceptives and improve individual family planning guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Balle
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anna-Ursula Happel
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Renee Heffron
- University of Washington Department of Global Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Heather B. Jaspan
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Washington Department of Global Health, Seattle, WA, USA
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Li Q. Clinical Effect of Intrauterine 3-Dimensional Ultrasound on the Function of the Intrauterine Cavity of Puerpera With Intrauterine Adhesions and Safety of Pregnancy. Ultrasound Q 2022; 38:267-271. [PMID: 35363666 DOI: 10.1097/ruq.0000000000000607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study aimed to analyze the diagnostic value of intrauterine 3-dimensional ultrasound and the functional characteristics of the intrauterine cavity for puerpera with intrauterine adhesions, and to explore the safety of pregnancy after treatment. A total of 102 puerperas with intrauterine adhesions were randomly selected, and intrauterine 3-dimensional ultrasound and 2-dimensional ultrasound were performed, respectively. Patients were followed up for 3 years to observe the pregnancy outcome and safety. The overall accuracy of diagnosing intrauterine adhesions through intrauterine 3-dimensional ultrasound was significantly higher than that through 2-dimensional ultrasound, and the accuracy of detecting mild intrauterine adhesions was significantly higher than that through 2-dimensional ultrasound, with statistically significant difference ( P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the accuracy between intrauterine 3-dimensional and 2-dimensional ultrasound in detecting moderate and severe intrauterine adhesions ( P > 0.05). The difference in missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis rates between the 2 methods was statistically significant ( P < 0.05). All patients received hysteroscopic surgery, and 78 cases (76.47%) were naturally fertilized during postoperative follow-up, including 24 cases of mature delivery, 45 cases of cesarean delivery, and 9 cases of spontaneous abortion. The intrauterine 3-dimensional ultrasound examination of the intrauterine cavity will provide intuitive and comprehensive diagnostic information for a parturient with intrauterine adhesion. Its detection accuracy is higher, and the clinical application is noninvasive and safe, which has certain guiding significance for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Taizhou People's Hospital, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
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Ryan R, Mussa A, Singtaa-Madliki M, Batting J, Balakrishna Y, Morroni C, Hofmeyr GJ. Effects of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Intramuscular Injection, Copper Intrauterine Device and Levonorgestrel Implant Contraception on Estradiol Levels: An Ancillary Study of the ECHO Randomized Trial. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:887541. [PMID: 35669313 PMCID: PMC9163398 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.887541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hormonal contraception affects endogenous sex steroid levels. Robust evidence from randomized trials of the relative effects of different contraceptive methods is scarce. We compared the effects of three contraceptive methods on serum estradiol levels using data from women (18–35 years) requesting contraception in the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) randomized trial. Methods Women were randomly allocated to the depot medroxyprogesterone acetate intramuscular (DMPA-IM) injection, copper intrauterine device (IUD) or levonorgestrel (LNG) implant. In this sub-study, stored baseline and 6-month serum samples were analyzed in 401 participants from East London, South Africa (DMPA-IM: 131, IUD: 135 and LNG: 135). Results Baseline median (interquartile range, IQR) estradiol levels were similar between the three groups [DMPA-IM 229 (152–455), IUD 235 (168–426) and LNG 216 (153–419 pmol/L)]. At 6-months, median estradiol in the IUD group was unchanged (298 (163–467) pmol/L), whilst levels in the DMPA-IM and implant groups were significantly reduced from baseline. The median estradiol level in the DMPA-IM group [139 (97–193) pmol/L] was significantly lower than in both IUD (p < 0.0001) and implant (p = 0.005) groups; and level in the implant group [156 (112–250) pmol/L] was significantly lower than in the IUD group (p = 0.004). Conclusions At 6-months (DMPA-IM nadir), median estradiol with DMPA-IM was 53% lower and with the LNG implant, 48% lower than with the IUD. The greater reduction in estradiol levels with the DMPA-IM injection compared to the LNG implant and IUD has implications for the relative psychological, sexual as well as physiological side-effects of these contraceptive methods. ECHO Study Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT02550067.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Ryan
- Botswana Sexual and Reproductive Health Initiative, Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- *Correspondence: Rebecca Ryan
| | - Aamirah Mussa
- Botswana Sexual and Reproductive Health Initiative, Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Mandisa Singtaa-Madliki
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Joanne Batting
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Yusentha Balakrishna
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Chelsea Morroni
- Botswana Sexual and Reproductive Health Initiative, Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - G. Justus Hofmeyr
- Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Eastern Cape Department of Health and Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, South Africa
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Morrison CS, Hofmeyr GJ, Thomas KK, Rees H, Philip N, Palanee-Phillips T, Nanda K, Nair G, Onono M, Mastro TD, Lind M, Heffron R, Edward V, Deese J, Beksinska M, Beesham I, Stringer JS, Baeten JM, Ahmed K, Kiarie J, Mugo NR, Justman J, Nhlabatsi Z, Bukusi EA, Louw C, Bekker LG, Smit J, Singata-Madliki M, Sibiya S, Kasaro MP, Baron D, Donnell D, Gichangi PB, Heller KB, Mbandazayo N, Pleaner M, Scoville CW, Shears K, Steyn PS, Taylor D, Welch JD. Effects of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, Copper Intrauterine Devices, and Levonorgestrel Implants on Early HIV Disease Progression. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2020; 36:632-640. [PMID: 32394723 PMCID: PMC7414801 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2020.0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Limited data exist on the effects of contraceptives on HIV disease progression. We studied the association between intramuscular injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), the copper intrauterine device (IUD), and the levonorgestrel (LNG) implant on markers of HIV disease progression at the time of HIV detection and 3 months postdetection and time from detection to CD4 count <350 cells/mm3. Among women initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART), we studied the effect of contraceptive group on time from ART initiation to viral load (VL) <40 copies/mL. We included women 16-35 years randomized to DMPA-IM, copper IUD, or LNG implant with incident HIV infection during the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) trial (n = 382). We analyzed HIV VL and CD4 cell count according to participants' randomized method and also conducted a "continuous use" analysis that excluded follow-up time after method discontinuation. We used adjusted linear models to compare mean VL and CD4 cell levels by contraceptive group up to the time of ART initiation. We compared time from HIV detection to CD4 count <350 cells/mm3 and, following ART initiation, time to viral suppression (VL <40 copies/mL) using Cox proportional hazards models. At HIV detection, women allocated to DMPA-IM had lower VL relative to copper IUD (-0.28 log10 copies/mL; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.55 to -0.01) and LNG implant (-0.27, CI: -0.55 to 0.02) and higher mean CD4 than copper IUD users by 66 cells/mm3 (CI: 11-121). In continuous use analyses women allocated to DMPA-IM progressed to CD4 < 350 cells/mm3 slower than copper IUD users (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.6, CI: 0.3-1.1), whereas copper IUD users progressed faster than LNG implant users (HR = 1.8, CI: 1.0-3.3). Time to viral suppression was faster for DMPA-IM than copper IUD (HR = 1.5, CI: 1.0-2.3) and LNG implant 1.4 (CI: 0.9-2.2) users. We found no evidence of more rapid early HIV disease progression among women using DMPA-IM than among women using copper IUD or LNG implant. Our finding of more rapid progression among copper IUD compared with DMPA-IM users should be interpreted cautiously.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - G. Justus Hofmeyr
- Effective Care Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Witwatersrand/Fort Hare/Walter Sisulu, East London, South Africa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Helen Rees
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), University of Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Neena Philip
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), University of Witswatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Maggie Lind
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Vinodh Edward
- The Aurum Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jen Deese
- FHI 360, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mags Beksinska
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ivana Beesham
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Jeffrey S.A. Stringer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Curtis KM, Hannaford PC, Rodriguez MI, Chipato T, Steyn PS, Kiarie JN. Hormonal contraception and HIV acquisition among women: an updated systematic review. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 46:8-16. [PMID: 31919239 PMCID: PMC6978562 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2019-200509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To update a 2016 systematic review on hormonal contraception use and HIV acquisition. METHODS We searched Pubmed and Embase between 15 January 2016 and 26 June 2019 for longitudinal studies comparing incident HIV infection among women using a hormonal contraceptive method and either non-users or users of another specific hormonal contraceptive method. We extracted information from newly identified studies, assessed study quality, and updated forest plots and meta-analyses. RESULTS In addition to 31 previously included studies, five more were identified; three provided higher quality evidence. A randomised clinical trial (RCT) found no statistically significant differences in HIV risk among users of intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), levonorgestrel implant (LNG implant) or the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD). An observational study found no statistically significant differences in HIV risk among women using DMPA, norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN), implants (type not specified) or Cu-IUD. Updated results from a previously included observational study continued to find a statistically significant increased HIV risk with oral contraceptives and DMPA compared with no contraceptive use, and found no association between LNG implant and HIV risk. CONCLUSIONS High-quality RCT data comparing use of DMPA, LNG implant and Cu-IUD does not support previous concerns from observational studies that DMPA-IM use increases the risk of HIV acquisition. Use of other hormonal contraceptive methods (oral contraceptives, NET-EN and implants) is not associated with an increased risk of HIV acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Curtis
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Philip C Hannaford
- Academic Primary Care, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Tsungai Chipato
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Petrus S Steyn
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - James N Kiarie
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Hannaford PC, Ti A, Chipato T, Curtis KM. Copper intrauterine device use and HIV acquisition in women: a systematic review. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 46:17-25. [PMID: 31919240 PMCID: PMC6978563 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2019-200512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review systematically copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) use and HIV acquisition in women. METHODS We searched Pubmed, Embase and the Cochrane Library between database inception and 26 June 2019 for longitudinal studies comparing incident HIV infection among women using an unspecified IUD or Cu-IUD compared with non-hormonal or no contraceptive users, or hormonal contraceptive users. We extracted information from included studies, assessed study quality, and summarised study findings. RESULTS From 2494 publications identified, seven met our inclusion criteria. One randomised controlled trial (RCT), judged "informative with few limitations", found no statistically significant differences in HIV risk between users of the Cu-IUD and either intramuscular depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM) or levonorgestrel implant. One observational study, deemed "informative but with important limitations", found no statistically significant difference in HIV incidence among IUD users compared with women who had tubal ligation or who were not using any contraception. Another "informative but with important limitations" observational study found no difference in HIV incidence between Cu-IUD users and DMPA or norethisterone enanthate injectable, or implant users. An RCT considered "unlikely to inform the primary question" also found no difference in HIV risk between Cu-IUD and progestogen-only injectable users. Findings from the other three "unlikely to inform the primary question" cohort studies were consistent with the more robust studies suggesting no increased risk of HIV acquisition among Cu-IUD users. CONCLUSION The collective evidence, including that from a large high-quality RCT, does not indicate an increased risk of HIV acquisition among users of Cu-IUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angeline Ti
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tsungai Chipato
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Kathryn M Curtis
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Hofmeyr GJ, Morrison CS, Baeten JM, Chipato T, Donnell D, Gichangi P, Mugo N, Nanda K, Rees H, Steyn P, Taylor D. Rationale and design of a multi-center, open-label, randomised clinical trial comparing HIV incidence and contraceptive benefits in women using three commonly-used contraceptive methods (the ECHO study). Gates Open Res 2018; 1:17. [PMID: 29355224 PMCID: PMC5771152 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.12775.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:In vitro, animal, biological and observational clinical studies suggest that some hormonal methods, particularly depot medroxyprogesterone acetate - DMPA, may increase women's risk of HIV acquisition. DMPA is the most common contraceptive used in many countries worst affected by the HIV epidemic. To provide robust evidence for contraceptive decision-making among women, clinicians and planners, we are conducting the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) study in four countries with high HIV incidence and DMPA use: Kenya, South Africa, Swaziland, and Zambia (Clinical Trials.gov identifier NCT02550067). Study design: We randomized HIV negative, sexually active women 16-35 years old requesting effective contraception and agreeing to participate to either DMPA, the copper T 380A intrauterine device or levonorgestrel implant. Participants attend a contraception support visit after 1 month and quarterly visits thereafter for up to 18 months. Participants receive a standard HIV prevention package and contraceptive side-effect management at each visit. The primary outcome is HIV seroconversion. Secondary outcomes include pregnancy, serious adverse events and method discontinuation. The sample size of 7800 women provides 80% power to detect a 50% relative increase in HIV risk between any of the three method pairs, assuming 250 incident infections per comparison. Ethical considerations: Several WHO consultations have concluded that current evidence on HIV risk associated with DMPA is inconclusive and that a randomized trial is needed to guide policy, counselling and choice. Previous studies suggest that women without a specific contraceptive preference are willing to accept randomization to different contraceptive methods. Stringent performance standards are monitored by an independent data and safety monitoring board approximately every 6 months. The study has been conducted with extensive stakeholder engagement. Conclusions: The ECHO study is designed to provide robust evidence on the relative risks (HIV acquisition) and benefits (pregnancy prevention) between three effective contraceptive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Justus Hofmeyr
- Effective Care Research Unit, Universities of Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, Eastern Cape Department of Health, East London, South Africa
| | | | - Jared M. Baeten
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tsungai Chipato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Deborah Donnell
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter Gichangi
- University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kavita Nanda
- Global Health, Population and Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Helen Rees
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Douglas Taylor
- Global Health, Population and Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - ECHO Trial Team
- Effective Care Research Unit, Universities of Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, Eastern Cape Department of Health, East London, South Africa
- Global Health, Population and Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Mombasa, Kenya
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Hofmeyr GJ, Morrison CS, Baeten JM, Chipato T, Donnell D, Gichangi P, Mugo N, Nanda K, Rees H, Steyn P, Taylor D. Rationale and design of a multi-center, open-label, randomised clinical trial comparing HIV incidence and contraceptive benefits in women using three commonly-used contraceptive methods (the ECHO study). Gates Open Res 2017; 1:17. [PMID: 29355224 PMCID: PMC5771152 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.12775.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vitro, animal, biological and observational clinical studies suggest that some hormonal methods, particularly depot medroxyprogesterone acetate - DMPA, may increase women's risk of HIV acquisition. DMPA is the most common contraceptive used in many countries worst affected by the HIV epidemic. To provide robust evidence for contraceptive decision-making among women, clinicians and planners, we are conducting the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) study in four countries with high HIV incidence and DMPA use: Kenya, South Africa, Swaziland, and Zambia (Clinical Trials.gov identifier NCT02550067). STUDY DESIGN We randomized HIV negative, sexually active women 16-35 years old requesting effective contraception and agreeing to participate to either DMPA, the copper T 380A intrauterine device or levonorgestrel implant. Participants attend a contraception support visit after 1 month and quarterly visits thereafter for 12 to 18 months. Participants receive a standard HIV prevention package and contraceptive side-effect management at each visit. The primary outcome is HIV seroconversion. Secondary outcomes include pregnancy, serious adverse events and method discontinuation. The sample size of 7800 women provides 80% power to detect a 50% difference in HIV risk between any of the three method pairs, assuming 250 incident infections per comparison. Ethical considerations: Several WHO consultations have concluded that current evidence on HIV risk associated with DMPA is inconclusive and that a randomized trial is needed to guide policy, counselling and choice. Previous studies suggest that women without a specific contraceptive preference are willing to accept randomization to different contraceptive methods. Stringent performance standards are monitored by an independent data and safety monitoring board approximately every 6 months. The study has been conducted with extensive stakeholder engagement. CONCLUSIONS The ECHO study is designed to provide robust evidence on the relative risks (HIV acquisition) and benefits (pregnancy prevention) between three effective contraceptive methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Justus Hofmeyr
- Effective Care Research Unit, Universities of Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, Eastern Cape Department of Health, East London, South Africa
| | | | - Jared M. Baeten
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tsungai Chipato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Deborah Donnell
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter Gichangi
- University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kavita Nanda
- Global Health, Population and Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Helen Rees
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Douglas Taylor
- Global Health, Population and Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
| | - ECHO Trial Team
- Effective Care Research Unit, Universities of Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, Eastern Cape Department of Health, East London, South Africa
- Global Health, Population and Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Mombasa, Kenya
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Hofmeyr GJ, Lawrie TA. Authors' response to 'Comment on 'Effects of injectable progestogen contraception versus the copper intrauterine device on HIV acquisition: sub-study of a pragmatic randomised controlled trial' '. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 43:344. [PMID: 29018110 DOI: 10.1136/jfprhc-2017-101864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G Justus Hofmeyr
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape, Department of Health, Universities of the Witwatersrand, Walter Sisulu and Fort Hare, East London, South Africa;
| | - Theresa Anne Lawrie
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape, Department of Health, Universities of the Witwatersrand, Walter Sisulu and Fort Hare, East London, South Africa.,Royal United Hospital, Bath, UK;
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Quispe Calla NE, Vicetti Miguel RD, Cherpes TL. Comment on 'Effects of injectable progestogen contraception versus the copper intrauterine device on HIV acquisition: sub-study of a pragmatic randomised controlled trial'. JOURNAL OF FAMILY PLANNING AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH CARE 2017; 43:342. [PMID: 28756404 PMCID: PMC10066852 DOI: 10.1136/jfprhc-2017-101827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nirk Ericson Quispe Calla
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA;
| | - Rodolfo D Vicetti Miguel
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA;
| | - Thomas L Cherpes
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA;
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Tepper NK, Krashin JW, Curtis KM, Cox S, Whiteman MK. Update to CDC's U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2016: Revised Recommendations for the Use of Hormonal Contraception Among Women at High Risk for HIV Infection. MMWR-MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT 2017; 66:990-994. [PMID: 28934178 PMCID: PMC5657782 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6637a6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi K Tepper
- Div of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC
| | - Jamie W Krashin
- Div of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC
| | - Kathryn M Curtis
- Div of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC
| | - Shanna Cox
- Div of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC
| | - Maura K Whiteman
- Div of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC
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