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  • Title: [Effects and side effects of hormonal contraceptives].
    Author: Carol W, Göretzlehner G.
    Journal: Z Arztl Fortbild (Jena); 1980 Feb 01; 74(3):97-104. PubMed ID: 7415248.
    Abstract:
    A discussion of the side effects of hormonal oral contraceptive (OC) use is presented. Studies show that the estrogen component of OCs works to suppress the release of GRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone), reducing the serum FSH level. The gestagen component desensitizes the frontal lobe of the pituitary gland to the effect of GRH and suppresses the preovulatory LH peak. OCs can cause subjective side effects such as nausea, headache, depression, which can also be observed during placebo use. Breakthrough bleeding, spotting, silent menstruation, and post-pill amenorrhea are menstrual irregularities which can be linked to OC use; 98% of those who discontinue OC use show normal biphasic menstrual cycles 3 cycles after discontinuation. A constant increase in serum triglyceride levels, small increases in cholesterol and phospholipid levels are observed among OC users. Minor cases of hyperinsulinism are observed among OC users with no history of diabetes; glucose tolerance tests should be regularly administered to OC users who have a risk of diabetes or a history of pregnancy diabetes. Serum levels of proteins are affected by OC use, probably due to the effects of OC use on liver function. Studies have shown an increased risk of thromboembolism and circulatory disorders among OC users, especially those who are over 30 years of age or who smoke. OC use has been linked to development of benign tumors of the liver and the cervix. Gestagens appear to reduce the frequency of endometrial mitosis. Other medications, e.g. analgesics, barbituates, can reduce the effectiveness of OCs. For adolescents, sequence preparations are preferred and should be administered only after a 1 year period of regular menstruation. Thorough check-ups should be performed on OC users twice yearly, and contraindications should be scrupulously observed.
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