Some biochemical and metabolic alterations associated with selected contraceptive methods in reproductive-age women: A Case-Control Study in Osun state, Nigeria

Background: Contraceptive use, while essential for family planning, has been anecdotally associated with various physiological changes. This study investigated the effects of selected hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive methods on key biochemical markers of oxidative stress, antioxidant defense, and plasma proteins in reproductive-age women.
Methods: A case-control study was conducted in Osun State, Nigeria, involving 200 women aged 20–49. Participants were divided into four groups (n=50 each): women using injectable contraceptives (Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate), women with contraceptive implants, women with an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD), and a control group of non-users. Plasma levels of total protein, albumin, antioxidant vitamins (A, C, E), and enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT], glutathione peroxidase [GPx]), as well as lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde [MDA]), were measured using standard spectrophotometric methods. Statistical significance was determined using one-way ANOVA, with a p-value < 0.05 considered significant.
Results: No significant changes were observed in any of the measured parameters in the IUCD group when compared to the control group. However, in both the injectable and implant groups, plasma levels of MDA and GPx were significantly increased (p<0.05), while levels of SOD, CAT, reduced glutathione (GSH), antioxidant vitamins (A, C, E), total protein, and albumin were significantly decreased (p<0.05) compared to the control.
Conclusion: The use of hormonal contraceptives (injectables and implants) is associated with a significant state of oxidative stress, characterized by increased lipid peroxidation and a depleted antioxidant defense system. These findings suggest that steroidal hormones may induce a pro-oxidant state, potentially increasing the long-term risk of related diseases. We recommend routine biochemical monitoring for women on long-term steroidal hormonal contraception.