Trace elements during 2 years' oral contraception with low-estrogen preparations

In 17 healthy women, taking either a combination of 0.030 mg of ethinyl estradiol and 0.150 mg of levonorgestrel (n = 9) or a combination of 0.030 mg of ethinyl estradiol and 0.150 mg of desogestrel (n = 8) for oral contraception, the profiles of iron, calcium, copper, and zinc levels were investigated. The blood samplings were performed prior to oral contraception and after 3, 12, and 24 months' contraception, as well as within 2 months after discontinuation of the pill. No changes occurred in iron, calcium, and zinc levels. On the other hand, the copper level was significantly increased during oral contraception, yet returned to the initial level after discontinuation of contraception. No differences occurred between the two preparations for oral contraception.