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Urinary tract dilatation and oral contraceptives
British Medical Journal
|December 5, 1970
Summary
Oral contraceptives may cause upper urinary tract overdistensibility in women, potentially increasing urinary tract infection risk and morbidity. This condition, while not life-threatening, warrants attention in patients using hormonal contraception.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Pharmacology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Overdistensibility of the upper urinary tract is a condition affecting renal function.
- Persistent or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) can indicate underlying urinary system issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between oral contraceptive use and upper urinary tract overdistensibility.
- To explore potential links between this condition and urinary tract infections.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of six nulliparous patients.
- Excretion urography to assess urinary tract distensibility.
- Review of patient history for urinary infections and oral contraceptive use.
Main Results:
- Six nulliparous patients exhibited upper urinary tract overdistensibility.
- Five of these patients reported persistent or recurrent UTIs.
- All patients were using or had used oral contraceptives.
Conclusions:
- Oral contraceptive therapy may be associated with upper urinary tract overdistensibility.
- This condition, while generally not life-threatening, may contribute to increased patient morbidity, particularly in the context of UTIs.