Association of Biochemical Parameters With Hormonal Contraceptives Among Women Attending the Dschang Regional Annex...

Background Hormonal contraceptives (HCs), including implants, oral pills, and injectables, contain synthetic estrogen and/or progestin and are widely used for pregnancy prevention and spacing. While effective, they have been linked to systemic side effects affecting metabolism, immunity, and biochemical balance, including weight gain, cardiovascular issues, and thromboembolic events. However, their effects on biochemical markers, such as lipid profiles and C-reactive protein (CRP), in our setting remain unclear. This study, therefore, aimed to assess the association between HC use and primary biochemical outcomes, including lipid profile parameters (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and CRP, as well as secondary outcomes comprising serum and urinary electrolyte levels among women attending the Dschang Regional Annex Hospital, Cameroon. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2024 to June 2025 among 510 women. Data on HC use and sociodemographic characteristics were collected using structured questionnaires. Blood and urine samples were collected in sterile dry tubes and containers, respectively. Biochemical analyses were performed according to the manufacturer's instructions to evaluate lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and electrolyte levels. Results Compared with non-users, HC users exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of total cholesterol (256.67 ± 8.57 vs. 141.12 ± 6.90 mg/dL), triglycerides (124.81 ± 4.51 vs. 84.82 ± 4.33 mg/dL), and LDL-cholesterol (158.88 ± 7.75 vs. 93.85 ± 7.36 mg/dL). CRP levels were also significantly higher among HC users (4.98 ± 0.79 vs. 3.27 ± 0.18 mg/L). Electrolyte disturbances were observed, with HC users presenting higher serum calcium (11.64 ± 0.47 vs. 9.78 ± 0.126 mg/dL), chloride (153.50 ± 7.39 vs. 103.57 ± 2.15 mmol/L), and potassium levels (6.58 ± 0.50 vs. 4.24 ± 0.09 mmol/L). Logistic regression analysis identified implant use as a significant risk factor for biochemical alterations, particularly elevated cholesterol (odds ratio (OR) = 4.57; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.59 - 13.13; p = 0.001), LDL-cholesterol (OR = 2.80; 95% CI: 1.27 - 7.60; p = 0.001), and increased CRP levels (OR = 3.18; 95% CI: 2.07 - 10.45; p = 0.001). Conclusions HC use is associated with significant alterations in lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and electrolyte balance. These findings suggest that HC may influence metabolic and inflammatory processes in users, highlighting the importance of routine biochemical monitoring among women using HC methods.