Etonogestrel implant in adolescents: evaluation of clinical aspects

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Best Practices for Counseling Adolescents about the Etonogestrel Implant

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

Contraception for Adolescents

Although pregnancy and abortion rates have declined in adolescents, unintended pregnancies remain unacceptably high in this age group. The use of highly effective methods of contraception is one of the pillars of unintended pregnancy prevention and requires a shared decision making process within a rights based framework. Adolescents are eligible to use any method of contraception and long-acting reversible contraceptives, which are “forgettable” and highly effective, may be particularly suited for many adolescents. Contraceptive methods may have additional non-contraceptive benefits that address other needs or concerns of the adolescent. Dual method use should be encouraged among adolescents for the prevention of both unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Health care providers have an important role to play in ensuring that adolescents have access to high quality and non-judgmental reproductive health care services and contraceptive methods in adolescent-friendly settings that recognize the unique biopsychosocial needs of the adolescent.

[Hypertension and contraception]

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Because of the high frequency of hormonal contraceptives use, assessing their side effects is an important public health issue. In this perspective, we conducted a review of the risk of hypertension associated with the use of hormonal contraceptives, either combined estrogen-progestin or only progestin. The use of combined hormonal contraceptives, regardless of its type and route of administration, is associated with a slight increase in blood pressure, both systolic and diastolic blood pressures. The frequency of onset of hypertension in women who use combined hormonal contraception is between 0.6% and 8.5%. Progestin-only contraception seems safe with respect to the risk of hypertension. It is therefore important to remember that the use of combined hormonal contraception is contra-indicated in hypertensive women, even well controlled. Finally, we propose a prescription assistance algorithm according to the recommendations of an expert panel. It should be remembered that taking blood pressure at each contraceptive consultation (initial and follow-up) is essential.

Timing of postpartum etonogestrel-releasing implant insertion and bleeding patterns, weight change, 12-month continuation and satisfaction rates: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether timing of etonogestrel (ENG) implant insertion during the postpartum period affects maternal bleeding patterns, body mass index (BMI) and 12-month satisfaction and continuation rates.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a secondary analysis of an open, randomized, controlled trial. Postpartum women were block-randomized to early (up to 48 h postpartum) or delayed (6 weeks postpartum) insertion of an ENG implant. Bleeding patterns and BMI were evaluated every 90 days for 12 months. At 12 months, we measured implant continuation rates and used Likert and face scales to measure users' satisfaction. The level of significance was 0.4% (adjusted by Bonferroni test for multiplicity).

RESULTS

We enrolled 100 postpartum women; we randomized 50 to early and 50 to delayed postpartum ENG implant insertion. Bleeding patterns were similar between groups. Amenorrhea rates were high in both groups during the follow-up (52%-56% and 46%-62% in the early and delayed insertion group, respectively). Prolonged bleeding episodes were unusual in both groups during the follow-up (0-2%). Maternal BMI was similar between groups and decreased over time. Twelve-month continuation rates were similar between groups (early insertion: 98% vs. delayed insertion: 100%, p=.99). Most participants were either very satisfied or satisfied with the ENG implant in both groups (p=.9).

CONCLUSION

Women who underwent immediate postpartum insertion of the ENG implant have similar bleeding patterns, BMI changes, and 12-month satisfaction and continuation rates compared to those who underwent delayed insertion.

IMPLICATIONS

Our results from a secondary analysis of a clinical trial support that satisfaction, continuation and bleeding patterns do not differ when women received contraceptive implants immediately postpartum or at 6 weeks. However, the emphasis on infant growth in the trial and easy access to delayed placement may have influenced results.

Etonogestrel-Releasing Contraceptive Implant for Postpartum Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Trial

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To compare immediate postpartum insertion of the contraceptive implant to placement at the 6-week postpartum visit among adolescent and young women.

DESIGN

Non-blinded, randomized controlled trial.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Postpartum adolescents and young women ages 14-24 years who delivered at an academic tertiary care hospital serving rural and urban populations in North Carolina.

INTERVENTIONS

Placement of an etonogestrel-releasing contraceptive implant before leaving the hospital postpartum, or at the 4-6 week postpartum visit.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Contraceptive implant use at 12 months postpartum.

RESULTS

Ninety-six participants were randomized into the trial. Data regarding use at 12 months were available for 64 participants, 37 in the immediate group and 27 in the 6-week group. There was no difference in use at 12 months between the immediate group and the 6-week group (30 of 37, 81% vs 21 of 27, 78%; P = .75). At 3 months, the immediate group was more likely to have the implant in place (34 of 37, 92% vs 19 of 27, 70%; P = .02).

CONCLUSION

Placing the contraceptive implant in the immediate postpartum period results in a higher rate of use at 3 months postpartum and appears to have similar use rates at 12 months compared with 6-week postpartum placement. Providing contraceptive implants to adolescents before hospital discharge takes advantage of access to care, increases the likelihood of effective contraception in the early postpartum period, appears to have no adverse effects on breastfeeding, and might lead to increased utilization at 1 year postpartum.

Sociodemographic profiles and use-dynamics of Jadelle (levonorgestrel) implants in Jos, Nigeria

Background:

Contraceptive implants (including Jadelle) are highly effective, safe, and easy to use and have a long duration of action. They do not interfere with intercourse with immediate return to fertility after removal. However, disruption of the menstrual bleeding pattern is almost inevitable and coercive prescription may be a problem because insertion and removal of implants are provider dependent. The objective of this study was to determine the sociodemographic profiles of acceptors of Jadelle and the reasons for discontinuation in Jos, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

This was a 6-year retrospective chart review carried out at the Jos University Teaching Hospital.

Results:

About 1401 women accepted Jadelle with a mean (±standard deviation) of 33.4 ± 5.9 years. About 88% of the women were Christians and almost three-quarters (73.5%) had at least secondary school education. The means of parity and number of children still alive at the time of accepting Jadelle were 4.1 and 3.8, respectively. Half of the women (49.5%) were breastfeeding and over half (55.9%) had future fertility desires at the time of commencing Jadelle. About 82% had previously used other contraceptives (mostly short-acting methods such as injectables, pills, and condoms), with only 18% starting Jadelle as the first-ever contraceptive method. About 90% of the women had regular menstrual cycles. The major reason for discontinuation of Jadelle was desire for pregnancy although menstrual pattern disruption was the most common reason for removal in the first 6 months of use.

Conclusion:

The main reason for discontinuation of Jadelle was to have more children although menstrual pattern disruptions accounted for earlier discontinuation.

Long-acting hormonal contraception

Today, a new category of fertility-regulating agents has been created: long-acting, reversible hormonal contraceptives; they minimize compliance, while maximize effectiveness. They comprise subdermal implants and intrauterine devices. Other long-acting agents exist, such as Depo Provera and Noristerat. Use of Depo Provera and Noristerat carries great effectiveness, good clinical safety and usefulness in developing countries. They cause no significant increase in breast cancer risk, but they may carry an increased risk of HIV. Subcutaneous delivery systems have two common features: prolongation of effect is obtained by a drug reservoir and for most of their duration of action they provide a continuous, sustained release of the active hormone. Finally, the intrauterine system Mirena represents both a very effective contraceptive and a specific treatment for menorrhagia.

[Sociodemographic and medical features of abortion among underage people in Guadeloupe (French West Indies)]

OBJECTIVE

In France, contraception is available for everybody; however, the number of abortion does not decrease, especially among young people. The aim of our study is to analyze, in the Guadeloupian context, the characteristics of underage people who ask for an abortion.

METHODS

This retrospective study, analyses sociodemographic and medical characteristics of 129 teenagers, who had an abortion in 2010 in our abortion center. For 67 of them results of interviews with the psychologist were also reported.

RESULTS

Preferentially from large single parent families, these underage people had a mean age of 15.9 years (± 1.12), 96.1% were born in France, 10.9% had had a previous pregnancy, 67.2% had an over 18 partner, 64.4% used contraception before the abortion. Main motivations for abortion were continuing studies and young age. Abortion occurs after 9 weeks of amenorrhea in 55.1% and 43.3% of underage people reported psychological problems linked to the abortion.

CONCLUSION

From this profile, our study suggests some reflection which could help the fight against unwanted pregnancies in this particular population of underage people.

Myths and misconceptions about long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)

PURPOSE

To discuss common myths and misconceptions about long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) among patients and health care providers.

METHODS

We address some of these common myths in an effort to provide clinicians with accurate information to discuss options with patients, parents, and referring providers. The list of myths was created through an informal survey of an online listserv of 200 family planning experts and from the experiences of the authors.

RESULTS

When presented with information about LARC, adolescents are more likely to request LARC and are satisfied with LARC. Clinicians have an important role in counseling about and providing LARC to their adolescent patients as well as supporting them in managing associated side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This review article can be used as a resource for contraceptive counseling visits and for the continuing education of health professionals providing adolescent reproductive health care.

Adolescent gynecology: special considerations for special patients

Developments in the field of adolescent gynecology highlight the specific expertise and care required by this population. Given the ability to shape their future health choices, adolescents are a critical target for preventative health care. The approach to the evaluation and management of this unique population rests not only on the practitioner's adept ability to recognize the unique clinical challenges that may occur, but also rests on his/her understanding of these problems. Here, we review recent guidelines and practice patterns in the evaluation and management of issues in adolescent gynecology.

Teen pregnancy prevention on a LARC: an update on long-acting reversible contraception for the primary care provider

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This update will highlight recent research and recommendations on long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) in the teen population, in order to make primary care providers more comfortable counseling on these methods in the medical home. LARC methods, which include intrauterine devices (IUDs) and subdermal hormonal implants, are used by only a small minority of sexually active teens, despite their endorsement by professional organizations as effective and well tolerated birth control options in this population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies show a lack of knowledge about LARC methods among young women, as well as persistent misconceptions among providers regarding who is eligible for LARC use. Existing trials of small numbers of adolescents generally show enthusiasm for its use among teens who are educated about LARC, high satisfaction rates among users of subdermal implants and IUDs, as well as varying pregnancy and continuation rates.

SUMMARY

The existing research on LARC shows promise for these methods in the teen population. However, larger trials are needed to establish accurate data on satisfaction, continuation, and failure rates, as well as to explore other barriers to use. Medical home providers should stay informed of research on LARC in order to improve contraceptive counseling to young women.

Rapid repeat pregnancy in adolescents: do immediate postpartum contraceptive implants make a difference?

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine contraceptive continuation and repeat pregnancy rates in adolescents who are offered immediate postpartum etonogestrel implant (IPI) insertion.

STUDY DESIGN

Participants in an adolescent prenatal-postnatal program were enrolled in a prospective observational study of IPI insertion (IPI group, 171) vs other methods (control group, 225). Contraceptive continuation and repeat pregnancies were determined.

RESULTS

Implant continuation at 6 months was 96.9% (156/161 participants); at 12 months, the continuation rate was 86.3% (132/153 participants). At 6 months, 9.9% of the control participants were pregnant (21/213); there were no IPI pregnancies. By 12 months, 18.6% of control participants (38/204) experienced pregnancy vs 2.6% of IPI recipients (4/153; relative risk, 5.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.9-12.7). Repeat pregnancy at 12 months was predicted by not receiving IPI insertion (odds ratio, 8.0; 95% CI, 2.8-23.0) and having >1 child (odds ratio, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.1-4.3; P = .03).

CONCLUSION

IPI placement in adolescents has excellent continuation 1 year after delivery; rapid repeat pregnancy is significantly decreased compared with control participants.