Seidman L, Seidman DS, Constantini NW. Hormonal contraception for female athletes presents special needs and concerns.
EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2024;
29:8-14. [PMID:
38108091 DOI:
10.1080/13625187.2023.2287960]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE
Oral contraceptives (OCs) are commonly used by female athletes raising concerns regarding the possible adverse effects of OCs on physical performance, musculoskeletal injuries, and bone density. We aimed to review all current studies on the physiological effects of OCs in physically active women.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A review of literature in electronic search in PubMed and Google Scholar databases from December 2002 to December 2022 using relevant keywords. The reference lists of the articles found eligible were also reviewed.
RESULTS
Out of 344 articles in the initial database, 54 clinical studies were eligible for inclusion in our literature review. OCs are used by about two-thirds of female athletes. Current research suggests that OCs' effects on endurance performance and muscle strength are mostly reassuring. OCs do not seem to have a major negative impact on bone health or sports injuries. In fact, new data suggests that they may even significantly reduce the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
CONCLUSIONS
OCs can be safely used by young female athletes, who may also benefit from better menstrual cycle control. OCs offer newly realised protection from ACL injuries. The use of OCs must be carefully individualised according to their preferences, expectations, and experience.
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