Cardiovascular and general safety of a 24-day regimen of drospirenone-containing combined oral contraceptives: final results from the International Active Surveillance Study of Women Taking Oral Contraceptives

Are natural estrogens used in contraception at lower risk of venous thromboembolism than synthetic ones? A systematic literature review and meta-analysis

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) poses a significant global health challenge, notably exacerbated by the use of combined oral contraceptives (COCs). Evidence mainly focuses on the type of progestogen used in COCs to establish the increased risk of VTE with less data assessed on the type of estrogen used. This meta-analysis aims to assess the risk of VTE associated with COCs containing synthetic estrogens like ethinylestradiol (EE) versus natural estrogens like estradiol (E2).

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Literature searches were performed in December 2023 in MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify clinical studies comparing the VTE risk between COCs containing synthetic versus natural estrogens. Studies were selected through rigorous screening, and data extraction followed standardized protocols, with statistical analyses employing a random effects model.

Results

The search yielded five relevant studies, involving over 560,000 women/time, demonstrating a significant 33% reduction in VTE risk among users of natural estrogen-based COCs compared to synthetic estrogen-based COCs (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.51-0.87). Stratification analyses using adjusted hazard ratios (HR) of the main observationnal studies showed a 49% reduced VTE risk of E2-based pills compared to EE in association with levonorgestrel.

Discussion and conclusion

Despite the longstanding use of EE-based COCs, emerging evidence supports a lower thrombotic risk associated with natural estrogens. This meta-analysis substantiates the lower VTE risk associated with natural estrogen-based COCs compared to synthetic alternatives, advocating for a re-evaluation of contraceptive guidelines to prioritize patient safety and reduce thrombotic risks.

Contraception as chemoprevention of ovarian cancer in BRCA1 and BRCA2 women

Ovarian cancer is the seventh most common cancer in women in the world, with an estimated worldwide mortality of over 207'000 women every year. This cancer, due to the current lack of adequate screening techniques, is commonly diagnosed late and has a poor prognosis. The oral contraceptive pill is considered the most effective prevention strategy for ovarian cancer in the general population, being associated with a decreased incidence while also having a substantial positive impact on the mortality rate, which is reduced by up to 50%. BRCA1 and BRCA2 germline mutated women have an augmented risk of ovary and breast cancer: despite international guidelines that consider prophylactic surgery as the gold standard for ovarian cancer prevention, there are currently no effective non-invasive preventive methods. In BRCA1\2 mutated patients, clinicians should weigh the benefits of contraceptive pills against the risk of long-term thromboembolic side effects and hormonal malignancies such as breast and cervical cancer. A multidisciplinary team should counsel patients on the most appropriate risk-reduction strategy tailored to their needs and expectations, proposing the oral contraceptive pill to selected patients after balancing the risks of adverse effects and the benefits on both contraception and chemoprevention.

Guideline No. 444: Hirsutism: Evaluation and Treatment

OBJECTIVE

This guideline reviews the etiology, diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of hirsutism.

TARGET POPULATION

Women with hirsutism.

OPTIONS

Three approaches to management include: 1) mechanical hair removal; 2) suppression of androgen production; and 3) androgen receptor blockade.

OUTCOMES

The main limitations of the management options include the adverse effects, costs, and duration of treatment.

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS

Implementation of the recommendations in this guideline may improve the management of hirsutism in women with this condition. Adverse effects and a potential long duration of treatment are the main drawbacks to initiating treatment, as is the possibility of significant financial costs for certain treatments.

EVIDENCE

A comprehensive literature review was updated to April 2022, following the same methods as for the prior Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) Hirsutism guidelines. Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, and observational studies. There were no date limits, but results were limited to English- or French-language materials.

VALIDATION METHODS

The authors rated the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations using the modified Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, along with the option of designating a recommendation as a "good practice point." See online Appendix A (Tables A1 for definitions and A2 for interpretations of strong and conditional [weak] recommendations).

INTENDED AUDIENCE

Primary care providers, family medicine physicians, obstetricians and gynaecologists, reproductive endocrinologists and others who manage the care of patients with hirsutism.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Management of hirsutism involves a 3-pronged approach of mechanical hair removal, suppression of androgen production, and androgen receptor blockade.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS

RECOMMENDATIONS.

Harms of third- and fourth-generation combined oral contraceptives in premenopausal women: A systematic review and meta-analysis

We assessed the available evidence regarding adverse effects on surrogate and patient-important health outcomes of third- and fourth-generation combined oral contraceptives among premenopausal women. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis including randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing third- and fourth-generation combined oral contraceptives with other generation contraceptives or placebo. Studies that enrolled women aged 15 to 50 years, with at least three cycles of intervention and 6 months of follow-up were included. A total of 33 studies comprising 629,783 women were included. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly lower in fourth-generation oral contraceptives (mean differences (MD): -0.24 mmol/L; [95% CI -0.39 to -0.08]), while total cholesterol was significantly increased in levonorgestrel users when compared to third-generation oral contraceptives (MD: 0.27 mmol/L; [95% CI 0.04 to 0.50]). A decreased arterial thrombosis incidence was shown in fourth-generation oral contraceptive users, as compared to levonorgestrel (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 0.41; [95% CI 0.19 to 0.86]). No difference was found in the occurrence of deep venous thrombosis between fourth-generation oral contraceptives and levonorgestrel users (IRR: 0.91; [95% CI 0.66 to 1.27]; p = 0.60; I2 = 0%). Regarding the remaining outcomes, data were heterogeneous and showed no clear difference. In premenopausal women, the use of third- and fourth-generation oral contraceptives is associated with an improved lipid profile and lower risk of arterial thrombosis. Data were inconclusive regarding the rest of outcomes assessed. This review was registered in PROSPERO with CRD42020211133.

Diagnosis and medical management of abnormal premenopausal and postmenopausal bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common reason for presentation to health-care providers: it is estimated that one woman in three will present to a care provider with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) during the reproductive years, and that at least one woman in 10 will experience postmenopausal bleeding. Although there are some variations in national guidelines for investigation, diagnosis and management of premenopausal AUB, there are far more areas of agreement than disagreement. A comprehensive literature search was undertaken to review national and international guidelines regarding investigation, diagnosis and management of AUB in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Areas of controversy are identified, and latest evidence reviewed. Although efforts to reduce hysterectomies for premenopausal AUB through medical management have largely been successful, there are areas where more research is necessary to guide optimal investigation and management. Many countries have well-defined guidelines for investigation and management of premenopausal AUB: there are fewer well-developed guidelines for investigation and management of postmenopausal bleeding. There is a paucity of evidence-based data on management of unscheduled bleeding on menopausal hormone therapy.

[The Thromboembolism Risk with Combined Hormonal Contraceptives: Current Status and Prescribing Practice]

The Thromboembolism Risk with Combined Hormonal Contraceptives: Current Status and Prescribing Practice Abstract. The use of combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) increases not only the risk for venous thromboembolism, but also for arterial thromboembolism. The risk for thromboembolism is the same for non-oral CHC (patches, vaginal rings) as for oral CHC. Risk factors such as age >35, obesity, smoking and a positive family history need to be recognized and considered in contraceptive counselling. Elaborate information concerning risks and benefits is mandatory. This applies to first-time as well as long-term users. Careful investigation of the history is required, and the risk factors need to be re-evaluated at yearly prescription. It is also very important to inform the patients about the early symptoms of thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, so that therapy can be started immediately. Apart from these risks, CHC may have beneficial effects on organs such as the ovaries, the endometrium and the general well-being for many women. When prescribing a CHC for the first time or when changing to another preparation, one should always weigh up whether certain benefits justify prescribing a preparation with a slightly higher risk of thrombosis compared to the second-generation pill or preparations with Estradiol/Nomegestrolacetat. Women who are already using a third-generation pill or a pill with drospirenone or cyproterone acetate and feel comfortable with it do not need to switch to another preparation (provided no new risk factors have arisen). For women with increased risks, i.e. several relative contraindications or one absolute contraindication, safe alternatives to CHC include progestogen-only preparations, intrauterine devices containing copper or levonorgestrel or, after family planning has been completed, surgical methods (sterilisation/vasectomy).

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.

Hormonal Contraception: Systemic Estrogen and Progestin Preparations

Combined hormonal contraception (CHC) are short-acting, reversible methods containing both estrogen and progestin. Available CHC methods include combined oral contraceptives, transdermal patches, and vaginal rings. The combined oral contraceptive remains the most commonly used contraceptive method in the United States. The general principles of CHC will be reviewed, including mechanism of action and effectiveness. Unless otherwise stated, these principles apply to all CHCs. When discussing clinical studies and specific considerations related only to pills, patches, or rings, the method(s) will be specified. Words that specify sex are used when discussing studies in which sex was specified.

Prospective controlled cohort study on the safety of a monophasic oral contraceptive containing nomegestrol acetate (2.5mg) and 17β-oestradiol (1.5mg) (PRO-E2 study): risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism

OBJECTIVE

To assess and compare the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and arterial thromboembolism (ATE) in NOMAC-E2 users with levonorgestrel-containing combined oral contraceptive (COCLNG) users.

STUDY DESIGN

This large, prospective, observational active surveillance study used a non-inferiority design. New users of NOMAC-E2 and COCLNG were recruited in 12 countries in Australia, Europe, and Latin America. Women were followed up directly and self-reported outcomes of interest were validated via treating physicians. The main outcome of interest was VTE, specifically deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremities (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Secondary outcomes included all VTE and ATE. Data on confounders were captured and independent blinded adjudication assessed the classification of events. Incidence rates, crude (HRcrude), and adjusted (HRadj) hazard ratios were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 101,498 women (49,598 NOMAC-E2 users and 51,900 COCLNG users) were enrolled and followed for up to 2 years (144,901 WY of observation). NOMAC-E2 users had a higher mean age (31.0 ± 8.63 years) than COCLNG users (29.3 ± 8.53 years) but other baseline characteristics were similar between the cohorts. The main analysis comparing the risk of DVT of the lower extremities and PE in NOMAC-E2 users versus COCLNG users yielded an HRadj of 0.59 (95% CI, 0.25-1.35) (adjusted for age, BMI, family history of VTE, and current duration of use). The risk of all VTE and ATE was not higher in NOMAC-E2 users compared with COCLNG users.

CONCLUSION(S)

NOMAC-E2 use was not associated with a higher risk of VTE or ATE compared with COCLNG.

Real world data on symptomology and diagnostic approaches of 27,840 women living with endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic disease that requires a suitable, lifelong treatment. To our knowledge, the Visanne Post-approval Observational Study (VIPOS) is to date the largest real-world, non-interventional study investigating hormonal management of endometriosis. We describe women’s experiences of endometriosis in the real world by considering their symptoms and the diagnostic process in their healthcare setting. Overall, 27,840 women were enrolled from six European countries via networks of gynecologists or specialized centers. Of these, 87.8% of women were diagnosed based on clinical symptoms; the greatest and lowest proportions of women were in Russia (94.1%) and Germany (61.9%), respectively. Most women (82.8%) experienced at least one of the triad of endometriosis-associated pain symptoms: pelvic pain, pain after/during sexual intercourse, and painful menstrual periods. The most frequently reported endometriosis-associated symptoms were painful periods (61.8%), heavy/irregular bleeding (50.8%), and pelvic pain (37.2%). Women reported that endometriosis impacted their mood; 55.6% reported feeling “down”, depressed, or hopeless, and 53.2% reported feeling like a failure or having let down family/friends. VIPOS broadens our understanding of endometriosis based on real-world data by exploring the heterogeneity of symptoms women with endometriosis experience and the differences in diagnostic approaches between European countries.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01266421; registered 24 December 2010. Registered in the European Union electronic Register of Post-Authorisation Studies as number 1613.

Health Status Is Affected, and Phase I/II Biotransformation Activity Altered in Young Women Using Oral Contraceptives Containing Drospirenone/Ethinyl Estradiol

Combined oral contraceptive (COC) use has been associated with various adverse effects. Formulations containing drospirenone (DRSP) and ethinyl estradiol (EE) are generally regarded as milder COCs. Whether long term use of these pills indeed has a low health risk remains questionable. COC use may affect the biotransformation balance by increasing the toxic load or by interfering with the pharmacokinetics of other drugs. This may negatively impact overall health via the production of toxic biotransformation metabolites and induction of oxidative stress. Although individual enzymes involved in biotransformation are known to be regulated by COCs, the effect of COC use on the overall liver biotransformation efficiency has not been reported. Here, we evaluated the general subjective health status and overall liver biotransformation efficiency of healthy young women who were either long term chronic users of COCs containing DRSP/EE, or who were not using any hormonal products. COC users suffered from moderate to severe fatigue and reported more health-related symptoms. Furthermore, phase I (CYP1A2) activity was reduced whereas phase II conjugation reactions (glucuronide conjugation and glycine conjugation) were increased in COC users. Finally, serum peroxide levels were markedly elevated and antioxidant capacity of plasma was reduced in COC users. COCs containing DRSP/EE may, therefore, adversely affect health status and disturb the balance between phase I and II biotransformation reactions. These effects may be mediated by oxidative stress.

Long-term safety of extended levonorgestrel-containing oral contraceptives in the United States

OBJECTIVES

To compare the safety profile of Seasonique, a 91-day levonorgestrel-containing combined oral contraceptive (COC_LNG), to 28-day COC_LNG regarding the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and arterial thromboembolism (ATE).

STUDY DESIGN

A new user cohort study was conducted in a US health care database from 2006 to 2017. Each 91-day COC_LNG treatment episode in females was matched to up to four 28-day COC_LNG treatment episodes by propensity score. We identified VTE cases in either (1) an inpatient setting with ICD-9 and ICD-10 diagnosis codes of PE and/or DVT in the primary position, or (2) an outpatient setting with ICD-9 or ICD-10 diagnosis codes of DVT in conjunction with an anticoagulant medication dispensing or alteplase (thrombolytic) during the 30-day period following the date of DVT diagnosis. VTE was validated using medical records. We assessed the study endpoints in the two cohorts using incidence rates and Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for potential confounders.

RESULTS

Of the 25,593 treatment episodes in 91-day COC_LNG and 76,586 treatment episodes in 28-day COC_LNG, 35 and 68 patients had VTEs, respectively, corresponding to a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.40 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90-2.19). The VTE algorithm had a positive predictive value of 76.4% (95% CI, 66.2%-84.8%). ATEs were recorded in 13 and 28 episodes, respectively, with a corresponding HR of 1.21 (95% CI, 0.58-2.53).

CONCLUSIONS

These results do not indicate a significant difference between 91-day COC_LNG and 28-day COC_LNG in terms of VTE or ATE risk.

IMPLICATIONS

Compared to use of 28-day COC_LNG, use of 91-day extended COC_LNG was not associated with a significant difference in risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism.

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.

[Endogenous and exogenous estrogens]

Before menopause, women are protected from the risk of hypertension and atherosclerosis by endogenous estrogens. Estrogens have a vasoprotective role, while progesterone seems to have a neutral effect. Exogenous estrogens used in menopausal treatment have vascular effects. These effects depend of type, dose and administration type, and with age and atherosclerosis stages. Synthetic progestins have varying clinical effects. Each drug must be evaluated separately.

ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 206: Use of Hormonal Contraception in Women With Coexisting Medical Conditions

Although numerous studies have addressed the safety and effectiveness of hormonal contraceptive use in healthy women, data regarding women with underlying medical conditions or other special circumstances are limited. The U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria (USMEC) for Contraceptive Use, 2016 (), which has been endorsed by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, is a published guideline based on the best available evidence and expert opinion to help health care providers better care for women with chronic medical problems who need contraception. The goal of this Practice Bulletin is to explain how to use the USMEC rating system in clinical practice and to specifically discuss the rationale behind the ratings for various medical conditions. Contraception for women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (); the use of emergency contraception in women with medical coexisting medical conditions, including obesity, (); and the effect of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) on bone health () are addressed in other documents from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

No. 329-Canadian Contraception Consensus Part 4 of 4 Chapter 9: Combined Hormonal Contraception

OBJECTIVE

To provide guidelines for health care providers on the use of contraceptive methods to prevent pregnancy and on the promotion of healthy sexuality.

OUTCOMES

Overall efficacy of cited contraceptive methods, assessing reduction in pregnancy rate, safety, and side effects; the effect of cited contraceptive methods on sexual health and general well-being; and the availability of cited contraceptive methods in Canada.

EVIDENCE

Medline and the Cochrane Database were searched for articles in English on subjects related to contraception, sexuality, and sexual health from January 1994 to December 2015 in order to update the Canadian Contraception Consensus published February-April 2004. Relevant Canadian government publications and position papers from appropriate health and family planning organizations were also reviewed.

VALUES

The quality of the evidence is rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care. Recommendations for practice are ranked according to the method described in this report.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS

RECOMMENDATIONS.

Premenstrual Syndrome: Evidence-based Evaluation and Treatment

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is defined by both physical and psychiatric symptoms that impact a woman significantly during the luteal phase of her menstrual cycle. Diagnostic criteria for PMDD were firmly established in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V in 2013, but many patients fall short of the diagnosis while still appreciably affected by severe premenstrual symptoms. More recent and robust investigations have evaluated the efficacy of treatment ranging from serotonergic therapy to hormonal treatment as well as lifestyle and herbal remedies. This article reviews the evidence for diagnosis and treatment of PMDD.

Hormonal Contraception, depression, and Academic Performance among females attending college in the United States

Associations between Hormonal Contraception (HC) and Depression have been previously reported, and indicate increased risk to younger women. These relationships need be explored and expanded to include measures of impact on Academic Performance (AP). Data was acquired from the National College Health Assessment (NCHA), administered from Fall 2008 to Spring 2015 across 370 schools nationwide. The most popular HC method was oral, followed by an IUD, and vaginal ring. HC use increased across all ages groups 18-29, and then decreased in the 30-34 age group. HC use significantly increased the odds of ever being diagnosed with depression in all age groups. HC use was found to have significantly increased odds of reporting AP issues in the 18-19 age group and to have significantly decreased odds of reporting AP issues in the 25-29 age group. Adding depression as a moderator, HC use continued to significantly increase the odds of AP issues. Women and their providers should balance the risks and benefits of initiating HC. Specifically, younger women, and be advised of the risks that HC presents in terms of a potential association with depression. Efforts to develop standardized protocols for discussing the risk-benefits for HC therapy should be pursued.

Venous thrombosis and hormonal contraception: what's new with estradiol-based hormonal contraceptives?

Objective

Estradiol (E2)-based hormonal contraceptives impact less than ethinylstradiol (EE) contraceptives on venous thromboembolism (VTE) in comparison to formulations with EE.

Study design

In this article, the pharamacologic data of EE and E2 were briefly reviewed, along with the induced biologic effect. These data were then related to a recent large international prospective, controlled, non-interventional cohort active surveillance study, on the cardiovascular risk of users of different types of combined estroprogestin contraceptive (CEPC).

Results

The crude HR for E2-valerate (E2V)/dienogest vs other CEPCs with EE was 0.8 (95% CI, 0.4–1.6), but when the data were corrected for age, body mass index, duration of use, and family history of VTE, the corresponding adjusted HR was 0.5 (95% CI, 0.2–1.0). A comparison of the E2V/dienogest and EE/levonorgestrel groups showed that the two contraceptives induced a similar VTE risk with the crude and adjusted VTE HRs of 0.7 (95% CI, 0.3–1.8) and 0.5 (95% CI, 0.2–1.3), respectively. Similar results were obtained when the observation was prolonged to January 2017.

Conclusions

The reduced impact of E2 vs EE on coagulation translates into the epidemiologic evidence of a reduced number of events in E2V vs EE users, when progestins other than levonorgestrel are used. However, E2 may continue to negatively impact on the risk of VTE, and this should not be forgotten at the time of prescription. Family history of VTE or thrombophilia, age, and obesity are risk factors for VTE too. If these risk factors are not taken into consideration and excluded, they can overcome or hide the higher safety of E2 vs CEPCs with EE.

No. 350-Hirsutism: Evaluation and Treatment

OBJECTIVES

To review the etiology, evaluation, and treatment of hirsutism.

EVALUATION

A thorough history and physical examination plus selected laboratory evaluations will confirm the diagnosis and direct treatment.

TREATMENT

Pharmacologic interventions can suppress ovarian or adrenal androgen production and block androgen receptors in the hair follicle. Hair removal methods and lifestyle modifications may improve or hasten the therapeutic response.

OUTCOMES

At least 6 to 9 months of therapy are required to produce improvement in hirsutism.

EVIDENCE

The quality of evidence reported in this guideline has been determined using the criteria described by the Canadian Task Force on the Periodic Health Examination.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Hirsutism can be slowly but dramatically improved with a 3-pronged approach to treatment: mechanical hair removal, suppression of androgen production, and androgen receptor blockade. Lifestyle changes, including weight loss and exercise, will lower serum androgen levels and improve self-esteem in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. The patient should be educated regarding the associated health problems or long-term medical consequences of hyperandrogenism, particularly in the context of polycystic ovary syndrome, including obesity, irregular menses, anovulation, infertility, pregnancy-induced hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and heart disease.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS

RECOMMENDATIONS.

Evaluation and Treatment of Hirsutism in Premenopausal Women: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline

OBJECTIVE

To update the "Evaluation and Treatment of Hirsutism in Premenopausal Women: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline," published by the Endocrine Society in 2008.

PARTICIPANTS

The participants include an Endocrine Society-appointed task force of seven medical experts and a methodologist.

EVIDENCE

This evidence-based guideline was developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system to describe the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence. The task force commissioned two systematic reviews and used the best available evidence from other published systematic reviews and individual studies.

CONSENSUS PROCESS

Group meetings, conference calls, and e-mail communications facilitated consensus development. Endocrine Society committees, members, and cosponsoring organizations reviewed and commented on preliminary drafts of the guidelines.

CONCLUSION

We suggest testing for elevated androgen levels in all women with an abnormal hirsutism score. We suggest against testing for elevated androgen levels in eumenorrheic women with unwanted local hair growth (i.e., in the absence of an abnormal hirsutism score). For most women with patient-important hirsutism despite cosmetic measures (shaving, plucking, waxing), we suggest starting with pharmacological therapy and adding direct hair removal methods (electrolysis, photoepilation) for those who desire additional cosmetic benefit. For women with mild hirsutism and no evidence of an endocrine disorder, we suggest either pharmacological therapy or direct hair removal methods. For pharmacological therapy, we suggest oral combined estrogen-progestin contraceptives for the majority of women, adding an antiandrogen after 6 months if the response is suboptimal. We recommend against antiandrogen monotherapy unless adequate contraception is used. We suggest against using insulin-lowering drugs. For most women who choose hair removal therapy, we suggest laser/photoepilation.

Drospirenone-Containing Oral Contraceptive Pills and the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism: An Assessment of Risk in First-Time Users and Restarters

INTRODUCTION

The effects of drospirenone-containing combined oral contraceptives (COCs) on the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) remain controversial due to the challenge in distinguishing between first-time users and restarters, and their different underlying VTE risks, in healthcare databases.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to describe the challenge of studying the risk of VTE among first-time users of drospirenone-containing COCs in a healthcare database and assess the risk among first-time users and restarters.

METHODS

We used data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink to construct two cohorts. The first-time user cohort included all women aged 16-45 years who received a first ever prescription of drospirenone- or levonorgestrel-containing COCs between May 2002 and March 2015. The restarter cohort included those who were restarting a COC after a period of non-use of ≥6 months. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for high dimensional propensity scores were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

The final cohorts included 55,139 first-time users (3582 drospirenone and 51,557 levonorgestrel) and 162,959 restarters (23,191 drospirenone and 139,768 levonorgestrel). The adjusted HR of VTE associated with drospirenone versus levonorgestrel was 3.19 (95% CI 1.12-9.08) for first-time users and 1.96 (95% CI 1.12-3.41) for restarters.

CONCLUSIONS

We found an elevated risk of VTE associated with drospirenone-containing COCs in comparison with levonorgestrel-containing COCs in both cohorts. While left truncation of healthcare databases is a concern for the identification of first-time users, the use of a more explicit cohort of restarters suggests a doubling of VTE risk with drospirenone-containing COCs.

Long-term prognosis, subsequent pregnancy, contraception and overall management of peripartum cardiomyopathy: practical guidance paper from the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology Study Group on Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is an idiopathic cardiomyopathy presenting with heart failure secondary to left ventricular systolic dysfunction towards the end of pregnancy or in the months following delivery, where no other cause for heart failure is identified. Outcome varies from full recovery to residual left ventricular systolic dysfunction and even death. Many women return to their physician to acquire information on their long-term prognosis, to seek medical advice regarding contraception, or when planning a subsequent pregnancy. This position paper summarizes current evidence for long-term outcome, risk stratification of further pregnancies and overall management. Based on the best available evidence, as well as the clinical experience of the European Society of Cardiology Study Group on Peripartum Cardiomyopathy members, a consensus on pre- and postpartum management algorithms for women undergoing a subsequent pregnancy is presented.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of venous thrombosis risk among users of combined oral contraception

Background

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) containing various progestogens could be associated with differential risks for venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Objective

To evaluate the comparative risks of VTE associated with the use of low‐dose (less than 50 μg ethinyl estradiol) COCs containing different progestogens.

Search strategy

PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched from database inception through September 15, 2016, by combining search terms for oral contraception and venous thrombosis.

Selection criteria

Studies reporting VTE risk estimates among healthy users of progestogen‐containing low‐dose COCs were included.

Data collection and analysis

A random‐effects model was used to generate pooled adjusted risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals; subgroup and sensitivity analyses assessed the impact of monophasic‐COC use and study‐level characteristics.

Main results

There were 22 articles included in the analysis. The use of COCs containing cyproterone acetate, desogestrel, drospirenone, or gestodene was associated with a significantly increased risk of VTE compared with the use of levonorgestrel‐containing COCs (pooled risk ratios 1.5–2.0). The analysis restricted to monophasic COC formulations with 30 μg of ethinyl estradiol yielded similar findings. After adjustment for study characteristics, the risk estimates were slightly attenuated.

Conclusions

Compared with the use of levonorgestrel‐containing COCs, the use of COCs containing other progestogens could be associated with a small increase in risk for VTE.

Combined oral contraceptives containing certain progestogens could be associated with a small increase in risk for venous thromboembolism compared with those containing levonorgestrel.

Hormonal contraceptives and risk of ischemic stroke in women with migraine: a consensus statement from the European Headache Federation (EHF) and the European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health (ESC)

Several data indicate that migraine, especially migraine with aura, is associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke and other vascular events. Of concern is whether the risk of ischemic stroke in migraineurs is magnified by the use of hormonal contraceptives. As migraine prevalence is high in women of reproductive age, it is common to face the issue of migraine and hormonal contraceptive use in clinical practice. In this document, we systematically reviewed data about the association between migraine, ischemic stroke and hormonal contraceptive use. Thereafter a consensus procedure among international experts was done to develop statements to support clinical decision making, in terms of cardiovascular safety, for prescription of hormonal contraceptives to women with migraine. Overall, quality of current evidence regarding the risk of ischemic stroke in migraineurs associated with the use of hormonal contraceptives is low. Available data suggest that combined hormonal contraceptive may further increase the risk of ischemic stroke in those who have migraine, specifically migraine with aura. Thus, our current statements privilege safety and provide several suggestions to try to avoid possible risks. As the quality of available data is poor further research is needed on this topic to increase safe use of hormonal contraceptives in women with migraine.

Oral contraceptive use and fracture risk-a retrospective study of 12,970 women in the UK

In the present retrospective case-control study, we compared 6485 women with fractures and 6485 women without fractures from 135 general practitioner offices in the UK. Women without bone fractures were statistically more likely to have been exposed to oral contraception, depending on their age and therapy duration.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this analysis was to compare the risk of bone fracture in women using hormonal contraception with that in women who have never used hormonal contraception.

METHODS

A total of 6485 women (mean age 37.8 years) with an initial diagnosis of fracture between January 2010 and December 2015 were identified in 135 doctors' offices in the UK Disease Analyzer database. In this nested case-control study, each case with a fracture was matched (1:1) to a control without a fracture for age, index year, and follow-up time. In total, 12,970 individuals were available for analysis. The main outcome of the study was the risk of fracture as a function of combined oral contraceptive (OC) therapy. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine the effect of OC therapy and its duration on the risk of fracture in the entire population and in four age-specific subgroups.

RESULTS

Women without bone fractures were significantly more likely to have used oral contraception (OR 0.81). The usage of oral contraception was associated with a significantly lower risk of bone fracture (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.74-0.90). This effect was strongest in the age groups 18-25 and 26-35 and in patients with an OC treatment duration of more than 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed that women without bone fractures were significantly more likely to have had exposure to combined oral contraception, especially where the duration of intake was at least 5 years.

Efficacy and safety of a flexible extended regimen of ethinylestradiol/drospirenone for the treatment of dysmenorrhea: a multicenter, randomized, open-label, active-controlled study

BACKGROUND

Dysmenorrhea is a common condition in women, which is characterized by menstrual pain. Low-dose estrogen/progestin combined oral contraceptives have been shown to reduce the severity of dysmenorrhea symptoms, and a 28-day cyclic regimen of ethinylestradiol/drospirenone (28d regimen) is approved for this indication in Japan.

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a flexible extended regimen of ethinylestradiol/drospirenone (flexible regimen) in Japanese women with dysmenorrhea.

METHODS

This multicenter, open-label study was performed in Japanese women with dysmenorrhea who, after a baseline observational phase, were randomized to receive ethinylestradiol 20 μg/drospirenone 3 mg in a flexible regimen (one tablet each day for 24-120 days followed by a 4-day tablet-free interval) or in the standard 28d regimen (one tablet each day for 24 days, followed by 4 days of placebo tablets for six cycles). The primary endpoint was the number of days with dysmenorrhea of at least mild intensity over a 140-day evaluation period. Dysmenorrhea scores, bleeding patterns, and other pain-related parameters were also assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 216 women (mean age 29.7 years) were randomized to the flexible regimen (n=108) or 28d regimen (n=108) and 212 were included in the full analysis sets (flexible regimen, n=105; 28d regimen, n=107). Women in the flexible-regimen group reported a mean of 3.4 fewer days with dysmenorrheic pain than women in the 28d-regimen group, with similar decreases in disease severity reported in both treatment groups. According to the investigators, 64.8% and 59.4% of women in the flexible-regimen and 28d-regimen treatment groups had "very much improved" or "much improved" disease, while 54.3% and 50.9% of patients reported being "very much satisfied" or "much satisfied" with their treatment, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In Japanese women with dysmenorrhea, a flexible extended regimen of ethinylestradiol/drospirenone decreased the number of days with dysmenorrheic pain versus the traditional 28d regimen.

Risks of thromboembolism associated with hormone contraceptives in Japanese compared with Western women

We extracted 581 thromboembolic events associated with combined oral contraceptives (COC) that occurred between 2004 and 2013 in Japan, from the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency database. The most common thromboembolic events associated with COC were deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and their combination. The reported thromboembolic events increased year by year, in association with an increase in the quantity of prescribed low-dose estrogen progestin after approval for health insurance coverage for dysmenorrhea in 2008 in Japan. The incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in Japanese COC users is estimated to be lower compared with their Western counterparts. In contrast, the frequency of all thromboembolic events peaked at 90 days from the start of COC, as in Western studies. The risk of VTE in the overweight group (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m² ) was more than twofold higher than in the standard group, and age-specific incidence rate rose sharply after the age of 40. There were different VTE risks according to progestin type in Japan as in Western countries, but a definite conclusion about risk according to progestin type was not able to be reached at present. As for the risk of arterial embolism and thrombosis, the difference by progestin type was small, but it became higher at ≥50 years of age. Last, mortality rate caused by thromboembolism is extremely low among COC users.

Hormonal contraception in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: choices, challenges, and noncontraceptive benefits

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age characterized by chronic anovulation and polycystic ovary morphology and/or hyperandrogenism. Management of clinical manifestations of PCOS, such as menstrual irregularities and hyperandrogenism symptoms, includes lifestyle changes and combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs). CHCs contain estrogen that exerts antiandrogenic properties by triggering the hepatic synthesis of sex hormone-binding globulin that reduces the free testosterone levels. Moreover, the progestogen present in CHCs and in progestogen-only contraceptives suppresses luteinizing hormone secretion. In addition, some types of progestogens directly antagonize the effects of androgens on their receptor and also reduce the activity of the 5α reductase enzyme. However, PCOS is related to clinical and metabolic comorbidities that may limit the prescription of CHCs. Clinicians should be aware of risk factors, such as age, smoking, obesity, diabetes, systemic arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, and a personal or family history, of a venous thromboembolic event or thrombophilia. This article reports a narrative review of the available evidence of the safety of hormonal contraceptives in women with PCOS. Considerations are made for the possible impact of hormonal contraceptives on endocrine, metabolic, and cardiovascular health.

Testosterone treatment and risk of venous thromboembolism: population based case-control study

OBJECTIVE

 To determine the risk of venous thromboembolism associated with use of testosterone treatment in men, focusing particularly on the timing of the risk.

DESIGN

 Population based case-control study SETTING:  370 general practices in UK primary care with linked hospital discharge diagnoses and in-hospital procedures and information on all cause mortality.

PARTICIPANTS

 19 215 patients with confirmed venous thromboembolism (comprising deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) and 909 530 age matched controls from source population including more than 2.22 million men between January 2001 and May 2013.

EXPOSURE OF INTEREST

 Three mutually exclusive testosterone exposure groups were identified: current treatment, recent (but not current) treatment, and no treatment in the previous two years. Current treatment was subdivided into duration of more or less than six months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

 Rate ratios of venous thromboembolism in association with current testosterone treatment compared with no treatment were estimated using conditional logistic regression and adjusted for comorbidities and all matching factors.

RESULTS

 The adjusted rate ratio of venous thromboembolism was 1.25 (95% confidence interval 0.94 to 1.66) for current versus no testosterone treatment. In the first six months of testosterone treatment, the rate ratio of venous thromboembolism was 1.63 (1.12 to 2.37), corresponding to 10.0 (1.9 to 21.6) additional venous thromboembolisms above the base rate of 15.8 per 10 000 person years. The rate ratio after more than six months' treatment was 1.00 (0.68 to 1.47), and after treatment cessation it was 0.68 (0.43 to 1.07). Increased rate ratios within the first six months of treatment were observed in all strata: the rate ratio was 1.52 (0.94 to 2.46) for patients with pathological hypogonadism and 1.88 (1.02 to 3.45) for those without it, and 1.41 (0.82 to 2.41) for those with a known risk factor for venous thromboembolism and 1.91 (1.13 to 3.23) for those without one.

CONCLUSIONS

 Starting testosterone treatment was associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, which peaked within six months and declined thereafter.

Drospirenone Litigation: Does the Punishment Fit the Crime?

There has been much controversy in the scientific literature and lay press about the potential for increased relative risks (RRs) of venous thromboembolism associated with certain contraceptives over others. This commentary reviews the conflicting data on drospirenone's relative venous and arterial risks and summarizes the details of over two billion dollars in litigation surrounding the use of these products. The current legal environment supports litigation focused on small potential RRs, associated with even smaller absolute risks. The absolute risks of venous and arterial thrombotic events in drospirenone users are low and comparable to that of other combined hormonal contraceptives. Women should have access to a wide array of contraceptive choices, including those containing drospirenone.

Combined hormonal contraception and the risk of venous thromboembolism: a guideline

While venous thromboembolism (VTE) is rare in young women of reproductive age, combined oral contraceptives increase the risk of VTE. In the patient in whom combined hormonal contraception is appropriate, it is reasonable to use any currently available preparation.

Hormonal Contraceptives and Migraine With Aura-Is There Still a Risk?

Unnecessary confusion still surrounds the use of combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) in the setting of migraine with aura (MwA). Clearing this confusion is a key issue for headache specialists, since most women with migraine have menstrual-related migraine (MRM), and some CHCs can prevent this particularly severe migraine. Their use, however, is still restricted by current guidelines due to concerns of increased stroke risk - concerns that originated over half a century ago in the era of high dose contraceptives. Yet studies consistently show that stroke risk is not increased with today's very low dose CHCs containing 20-25 µg ethinyl estradiol (EE), and continuous ultra low-dose formulations (10-15 µg EE) may even reduce aura frequency, thereby potentially decreasing stroke risk. This article clarifies the stroke risk of CHCs and examines their impact on migraine. It also examines how stroke risk is altered by the estrogen content of the CHC, by contributing factors such as smoking, age and hypertension, and by aura frequency. And finally, it puts these risks into a meaningful context with a risk/benefit assessment.

Fertility and combined oral contraceptives - unintended pregnancies and planned pregnancies following oral contraceptive use - results from the INAS-SCORE study

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the real-use contraceptive effectiveness of the combined oral contraceptive containing dienogest and estradiol valerate (DNG/EV) and whether DNG/EV compared to other combined oral contraceptives (oCOC) has a negative effect on return to fertility.

METHODS

Transatlantic, prospective, non-interventional cohort study conducted in the USA and seven European countries with two main exposure groups and one exposure subgroup: new users of DNG/EV and other COC (oCOC), particularly levonorgestrel-containing COCs (LNG). In a planned secondary analysis, pregnancy outcomes were investigated including contraceptive effectiveness and pregnancy following contraceptive cessation. The influence of age, parity and OC-type were assessed.

RESULTS

50,203 COC users were followed for 105,761 woman-years (WY). There were 677 unintended pregnancies reported: 451 in the USA and 226 in Europe. The contraceptive failure rate in Europe was 0.5 events/100 WY (95% CI: 0.4-0.5) and in the USA 1.9 events/100 WY (95% CI: 1.7-2.1). Differences in compliance (1.3 pregnancies/100 WY) accounted for 90% of the geographical difference seen between Europe and the USA. DNG/EV showed lower contraceptive failure rates compared to the comparators; 0.9% DNG/EV, 2.1% oCOC and 2.8% LNG after 4 years. Overall, 1167 (2.3%) of women stopped contraceptive use with the intention of becoming pregnant with 89% conceiving within 2 years. No significant differences were seen between groups after adjusting for age.

CONCLUSION/DISCUSSION

DNG/EV is associated with similar contraceptive effectiveness in typical-use settings when compared to oCOC and LNG. There was no difference observed between cohorts in fertility following OC use.

Impact of estrogen type on cardiovascular safety of combined oral contraceptives

OBJECTIVES

The International Active Surveillance study "Safety of Contraceptives: Role of Estrogens" (INAS-SCORE) investigated the cardiovascular risks associated with the use of a combined oral contraceptive (COC) containing dienogest and estradiol valerate (DNG/EV) compared to established COCs in a routine clinical setting.

STUDY DESIGN

Transatlantic, prospective, noninterventional cohort study conducted in the United States and seven European countries with two main exposure groups and one exposure subgroup: new users of DNG/EV and other COC (oCOC), particularly levonorgestrel-containing COCs (LNG). All self-reported clinical outcomes of interest (OoI) were validated via attending physicians and relevant source documents. Main OoI were serious cardiovascular events (SCE), particularly venous thromboembolic (VTEs) events. Comprehensive follow-up procedures were implemented. Statistical analyses were based on Cox regression models.

RESULTS

A total of 50,203 new COC users were followed up for up to 5.5years (mean value, 2.1years). Overall 20.3% and 79.7% of these women used DNG/EV and oCOC (including 11.5% LNG users), respectively. A low loss to follow-up of 3.1% was achieved. Based on 47 (VTE) and 233 (SCE) events, the primary analysis (European data set) yielded adjusted hazard ratios for DNG/EV vs. oCOC of 0.4 and 0.5, respectively. The upper bounds of the 95% confidence intervals were 0.98 (VTE) and 0.96 (SCE). The corresponding hazard ratios for DNG/EV vs. LNG showed similar point estimates but the confidence intervals included unity.

CONCLUSION

DNG/EV is associated with similar or even lower cardiovascular risk compared to oCOC and LNG.

IMPLICATION STATEMENT

A COC containing DNG and EV is associated with similar or even lower cardiovascular risk compared to COCs containing levonorgestrel or other progestogens.

The birth control pill, thromboembolic disease, science and the media: a historical review of the relationship

The introduction of the birth control pill (the Pill) in 1960 revolutionized the options for contraception, sparking vibrant discussion in the scientific and social science literature and in the media. Much attention focused on issues of women's rights, including ethics and personal choice. But the Pill also introduced new questions about risk. Shortly after its introduction, the risk of thromboembolic disease was recognized [1]. After more than half a century, controversies about the relationship between the Pill and thromboembolic disease have persisted. The scientific and media communities have been active in the discussion, debate and delivery of information about this risk. Scientific and public attention to thromboembolism and the Pill has had dramatic consequences, both good and bad. The spotlight on risk has helped to change norms regarding the public's right to know and assess dangers; it has sparked Pill scares linked to increased unplanned pregnancy, birth and abortion rates; and it has led to a change in federally mandated policies regarding how new contraceptive products are studied and brought to market. This paper charts the narrative of the thromboembolic risk of the Pill from its introduction in 1960 until today and reviews the corresponding media response to this history. How does the story of the thromboembolic risk of the Pill - explored through the lens of science, media and contemporary social dynamics - frame contemporary understanding of risk for researchers, clinicians, individuals and the public?