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[At what age should oral contraception be stopped?]
J C Boulanger1, J Gondry, K Devoldere
1Centre de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, CHRU, Amiens.
Revue Francaise De Gynecologie Et D'Obstetrique
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Newer oral contraceptives may be suitable for women over 40 until menopause, offering benefits like reduced cancer risk and protection against osteoporosis. These agents are a safer option than pregnancy at this age, provided risks are assessed.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Gynecological Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Oral contraceptives are often contraindicated for women over 40 due to vascular risks.
- Fertility significantly declines after age 40, altering the risk-benefit analysis of contraception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and utility of modern estroprogestational agents for oral contraception in women approaching menopause.
- To assess the risks and benefits of continued oral contraception beyond age 40.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on oral contraceptive use in women over 40.
- Analysis of vascular, gynecological, and breast health risks associated with oral contraceptives.
- Comparison of risks between oral contraceptive use and pregnancy after age 40.
Main Results:
- Estroprogestational agents can be safely continued until menopause in selected women.
- Benefits include protection against ovarian and endometrial cancer.
- Advantages also encompass cycle regulation, prevention of early estrogen deficiency, and osteoporosis prevention.
Conclusions:
- Modern oral contraceptives are a viable option for women over 40 until menopause, especially when considering the increased risks of pregnancy at this age.
- Careful patient selection to exclude risk factors is crucial for safe use.