[Influence of hormonal contraception on serum lipoproteins]

Cholesterol and triglyceride measurements in lipoproteins (VLDL, LDL, HDL) separated by preparative ultracentrifugation showed that women aged 20 to 29 using oral hormonal contraceptives had increased LDL triglycerides without significant changes in serum lipids. Among older women (aged 30 to 39), changes induced by hormonal contraception were more pronounced. Triglycerides were increased in VLDL and LDL, with a significant rise in serum triglycerides. The LDL cholesterol was elevated without significant changes in serum cholesterol. None of the women had overt hyperlipoproteinemia. Routine serum cholesterol and triglyceride measurements may not reveal the changes in cholesterol and triglyceride lipoprotein content which may play a role in the increased incidence of cardiovascular disease among women using the "pill".