A three-year evaluation of hemostatic function in Singaporean Norplant-2 rod acceptors

K Singh1, O A Viegas, S S Ratnam

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Singapore, National University Hospital.

Advances in Contraception : the Official Journal of the Society for the Advancement of Contraception
|June 1, 1990
PubMed

Insights

Norplant-2 contraceptive use for three years may increase thrombosis risk. This is shown by higher platelet counts, aggregability, and altered coagulation times, suggesting hypercoagulation potential.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Health
  • Hematology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives requires ongoing safety evaluation.
  • Understanding hemostatic changes associated with contraceptive implants is crucial for risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the longitudinal effects of Norplant-2 rods on hemostatic function over three years.
  • To investigate potential alterations in coagulation parameters indicative of thrombosis risk.

Main Methods:

  • A three-year longitudinal study involving 100 Singaporean Norplant-2 acceptors.
  • Monitoring of platelet count, platelet aggregability, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and vitamin K coagulation factors.

Main Results:

  • Significant increases in platelet count and aggregability observed.
  • Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) remained shortened throughout the study.
  • A general decrease in most vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors was noted.

Conclusions:

  • Three years of Norplant-2 use may be associated with an increased predisposition to thrombosis.
  • Findings suggest a potential for enhanced hypercoagulation in long-term Norplant-2 users.

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