From ages 16 to 21, researchers took blood samples from the participants once a year to measure cardiolipoprotein levels. From ages 12.5 to 21, they took body composition measurements with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Participants filled out questionnaires with information about physical activity so that researchers could adjust results for both body mass index and level of activity.
Results revealed that height, weight, body mass index, body fat and most cardiovascular disease risk factors were similar for oral contraceptive users and nonusers. Low-density lipoproteins, total cholesterol and triglycerides were slightly higher in users than in nonusers, although still within the normal range.
"The long-term effects, if any, of this alteration in lipid profiles is unknown," Lloyd said.
This study supports previous ones that show that the latest generation of oral contraceptives with a lower dose of hormones have more influence on blood lipid patterns of women under 25 than over 25. It's unknown whether those changes have clinical significance.
"Although perceived weight gain is a common complaint among women who use oral contraceptives, previous studies have shown that this is not the case with adult women and this study provides evidence that the body composition of young women using oral contraceptives also is not affected," Legro said. "Based on this new information, we suggest that potential users be counseled by their health care providers accordingly."
'"/>
Contact: Valerie Gliem
vgliem@psu.edu
717-531-8604
Penn State
12-Sep-2002