Authors: Pincemail, J.; Vanbelle, S.; Gaspard, U.; Collette, G.; Haleng, J.; Cheramy-Bien, J.P.; Charlier, C.; Chapelle, J.P.; Giet, D.; Albert, A.; Limet, R.; Defraigne, J.O.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 22, Number 8, 21 August 2007 , pp. 2335-2343(9)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is associated with the development of several disorders including cardiovascular disease and cancer. Among conditions known to influence oxidative stress, the use of oral contraception (OC) in women has been a matter of ongoing discussion.

METHODS

A total of 897 eligible and healthy volunteers were recruited from among the patients of 50 general practitioners participating in the ELAN study (Etude Ligeoise sur les ANtioxydants). A subsample consisting of 209 women aged 4048 years was studied for a comprehensive oxidative stress status (OSS), including the analysis of antioxidants, trace elements and three markers of oxidative damage to lipids. Among 209 subsample, 49 (23) were OC users (OCU), 119 (57) non-contraception users (NCU) and 41 (20) were intrauterine (hormonal and copper) devices users (IUD).

RESULTS

After adjustment for smoking, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and BMI (or waist circumference), a marked and significant increase in lipid peroxides was observed among OCU women when compared with NCU and IUD users. A cut-off value of 660 M in lipid peroxides allowed the discrimination of OCU from the two other groups. In contrast, no difference was observed in the plasma concentration of both oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and their related antibodies. The increased level in lipid peroxides was strongly related to higher concentrations of copper (r < 0.84; P < 0.0001, cut-off value 1.2 mg/l). When compared with NCU and IUD users, plasma antioxidant defences were significantly altered in OCU women as shown by lower levels of -carotene (decrease of 39; P < 0.01) and -tocopherol (decrease by 22; P < 0.01). In contrast, higher concentrations of selenium (increased by 11.8; P < 0.01) were observed in OCU women. Blood concentrations of vitamin C, -tocopherol and zinc were unaffected by OC use.

CONCLUSIONS

The intake of OC significantly increases the lipid peroxidation in women aged 4048 years. This may represent a potential cardiovascular risk factor for these women.

Keywords: oxidative stress; antioxidants; oral contraception; ELAN study

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/dem146

Publication date: 2007-08-21

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• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

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• In this Subject: Anatomy & Physiology ,  Obstetrics & Gynecology
• By this author: Pincemail, J. ;  Vanbelle, S. ;  Gaspard, U. ;  Collette, G. ;  Haleng, J. ;  Cheramy-Bien, J.P. ;  Charlier, C. ;  Chapelle, J.P. ;  Giet, D. ;  Albert, A. ;  Limet, R. ;  Defraigne, J.O.

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