Humoral immunity in oral contraceptive users. I. Plasma immunoglobulin levels

The worldwide acceptance of steroid-based oral contraception makes it imperative that the effect of these agents on the immune system is understood. Nevertheless, information regarding the effect of steroid-based oral contraception on plasma immunoglobulin (Ig) levels is often conflicting. In this report immunoglobulin levels in the plasma of females taking steroid-based oral contraceptives are measured in a novel manner using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). No significant alterations in the levels of IgG or IgM are reported.