Menstrual pattern and lipid profiles during use of
Medroxyprogesterone acetate and estradiol cypionate (Cyclofem) and Depo medroxy
progesterone acetate (DMPA) as contraceptive injections, lesson learned from Iran
F. Ramezani Tehrani, H. Malek Afzali, M. Simbar
National Research Center for
Reproductive Health, Tehran, Iran
The objectives of this study were to compare
effects of medroxyprogesterone acetate 25 mg + estradiol cypionate 5 mg (Cyclofem)
and Depomedroxiprogestrone acetate(DMPA) upon the menstrual pattern and
determine changes in lipoprotein parameters after 12 months of use.
123 females
were included and 97 (53 with Cyclofem and 44 with DMPA women completing 12
months were evaluated.
Menstrual changes were the leading complaint among users.
At the end of 12 months, 48.7% and 35.8% Cyclofem and DMPA users, respectively,
had normal menstrual pattern. Irregular, infrequent bleeding and spotting were
the three most important changes that occurred. The discontinuation rate at 12
months due to menstrual disturbances did not show any significant differences
between the two preparations, although menstrual pattern was significantly
difference based on their daily menstrual card.
Cholesterol, high-density,
low-density and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels
decreased at 12 months in both groups but these changes were not statistically
significant.
Injectable hormonal contraceptives can be considered as acceptable
contraception in our community, but due to high prevalence of menstrual
irregularity and its effect on the religious responsibility, so a comprehensive
counseling has to be considered before its introduction