[Effects of hormonal contraceptives on parameters of lipid metabolism (author's transl)]

Constant rise of triglycerides and low but regular increase of phospholipid concentrations in serum were observed as a consequence of intake of single-phase hormonal contraceptives. This has been paralleled by inconstant, moderate rise in cholesterol. Those effects are likely to demonstrate dependence on oestrogen amounts of the preparations in question as well as on both quality and quantity of the progestagenic component. Rising concentrations of low density lipoproteins were recordable with regularity. However, variegated results so far have been obtained from studies into the behaviour of high-density lipoproteins. -The mechanism of origin of those alterations, which usually did not surpass normal limits, and their relevance to clinical practice are discussed.