Birth Control
Articles tagged with Birth Control
Researchers make big step toward safe, reversible male contraception
Researchers at Cornell University have made a breakthrough in developing a safe and reversible male contraceptive. By targeting meiosis with the small molecule inhibitor JQ1, they successfully stopped sperm production without affecting fertility or offspring health. The study shows promise for a non-hormonal, long-acting, and 100% effe...
Women with diabetes less likely to receive preventive care and some screenings
A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that women with diabetes are less likely to receive recommended preventive care services such as conception counseling and breast/cervical cancer screening. This oversight puts them at risk for preventable medical conditions like pregnancy complications.
Birth control pills, IUDs not associated with brain pressure disorder
A meta-analysis published in Neurology found no link between hormonal contraception and an increased risk of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The study included over 5,000 participants and covered various types of birth control methods.
11% rise in maternal deaths in US aid-dependent countries under Republican administrations
A data analysis found that maternal deaths increased by 11% in US aid-dependent countries during Republican administrations, eroding a fifth of the global decline in maternal deaths since 1985. The policy, which restricts family planning services, is associated with a 10.5% increase in maternal deaths.
News media representations contribute to stigma around childlessness
Research analyzes news articles on childlessness, identifying themes that perpetuate stigma and structural imbalances, highlighting the need for media literacy initiatives and equitable health communication
Contraception without hormones: Goethe University researches alternatives to “the pill”
Researchers at Goethe University are developing non-hormonal contraceptives to address declining pill use and side effects. The PREVENT project aims to create safe and effective alternatives, focusing on small molecules that block proteins in sperm or egg cells.
New publication details journey of the molecule behind male birth control pill
Researchers describe chemical journey of YCT-529, a non-hormonal male birth control pill, and its promising molecular science behind it. The compound effectively suppresses sperm counts, showing promise as a durable and reversible contraceptive option.
Why this little-known birth control option deserves more attention
A new study found that only a quarter of reproductive health experts prescribe self-administered injectable contraceptives, despite its safety and effectiveness. The study identified barriers such as concerns about patient ability, medication availability, and lack of standardized counseling approaches.
Combined oral contraceptive use among people with migraine with aura persists, despite cautions
A new study found that a sizable minority of people with migraine with aura still receive estrogen-containing birth control pills and hormone therapy, despite treatment contraindications. The study highlights the need for updated research on stroke risks associated with these medications among people with this type of migraine.
Contraception and castration increase lifespan in mammals
A comparative study of 117 mammal species found that reproductive suppression increases lifespan by an average of ten percent. The study suggests that blocking reproduction allows more energy to be directed towards longevity, with significant effects observed in various mammalian groups.
UBC study shows good B.C. abortion pill access, but gaps remain
A UBC-led study found that most pharmacies in British Columbia can provide the abortion pill mifepristone within days, but uneven access still poses barriers for some women. The study highlights the need for better communication between pharmacies and clearer referral systems to close remaining gaps.
More women sought permanent contraception after Supreme Court Dobbs decision
A new study found that the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision led to a significant increase in tubal ligations, a surgical procedure that permanently prevents pregnancy, with 51% more procedures performed across four medical centers between 2021 and 2023.
University of Cincinnati study urges more reproductive care for those with chronic kidney disease
A new study from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine calls for more extensive nephrology fellowship training on reproductive health. Females with CKD face increased risks of high-risk pregnancies, preeclampsia, and preterm births, yet their contraceptive use remains relatively low.
Breast cancer risk varies between different hormonal contraceptives
A new Swedish study found that breast cancer risk varies depending on the type of hormone in hormonal contraceptives. Desogestrel was linked to a higher risk, while levonorgestrel products showed a lower risk, indicating that some contraceptives may be safer options for women with a higher baseline risk.
Houseplant inspires textured surfaces to mitigate copper IUD corrosion
Researchers developed a new copper IUD with laser-engraved microstructure patterns inspired by the golden pothos plant, which reduces corrosion and releases fewer copper ions. The device is more hydrophobic and corrosion-resistant, causing less cell death and increasing cell viability.
Sexual health gaps persist for migrant youth in Canada, despite lower rates of sexual activity
A UBC-led study found that migrant youth in Canada are less likely to be sexually active than their Canadian-born peers, with declining contraception use among those who do participate. Systemic barriers, including language barriers and stigmatization, hinder access to accurate information and services.
Menopause drug reduces hot flashes by more than 70%, international clinical trial finds
A large international clinical trial found that elinzanetant significantly reduces hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women by over 73%. The drug also shows secondary benefits such as improved quality of life and reduced sleep disturbances, with no harmful effects on the liver or bone density.
GLP-1 weight-loss drugs pose hidden risks for young women
A new study found that Australian women of reproductive age taking GLP-1 receptor agonists are not using effective contraception, despite known risks during pregnancy. The research revealed a higher risk of pregnancy among younger women with diabetes and those without diabetes in their early thirties.
Millions of women rely on contraceptives, but new Rice study shows they may do more than just prevent pregnancy
A new Rice University study finds hormonal contraceptives shape how women experience emotions in the moment and remember emotional events later. Women on hormonal contraceptives showed stronger emotional reactions and remembered fewer details of negative events when using emotion regulation strategies.
Over-the-counter pill boosts access to contraception, OHSU study finds
A nationwide study found a 31.8% increase in people shifting from no birth control to the over-the-counter oral contraceptive pill after its FDA approval. The pill is particularly beneficial for racial and ethnic minority groups, adolescents, and those with limited financial resources.
Over-the-counter oral contraceptive use and initiation of contraception
A cross-sectional study of U.S. individuals obtaining oral contraception found that many accessed the pill over-the-counter, improving access for those with limited options. This shift suggests OTC access can help reduce health disparities related to reproductive healthcare
Thousands more B.C. women chose top-tier birth control after patient costs eliminated
A new study found that B.C.'s universal, no-cost coverage policy led to a significant increase in the use of long-acting reversible contraception among reproductive-aged women. The study tracked nearly 860,000 women and discovered that cost was a major barrier to accessing effective birth control methods like IUDs and implants.
IVF and IUI pregnancy rates remain stable across Europe, despite an increasing uptake of single embryo transfer
Pregnancy rates remained stable for IVF and IUI cycles in 2022, while single embryo transfer usage increased. Clinical pregnancy rates were stable, with singleton delivery rates improving to 91.5%. The use of ART rose by 15.6% despite a slight decline in total treatment cycles.
Older paternal age linked to higher miscarriage risk and lower live birth rates in donor egg IVF cycles, new study finds
A new international study reveals that male partners over 45 carry significantly increased miscarriage risks and lower live birth rates even when young donor eggs are used. The study found that older paternal age is linked to genetic mutations, sperm DNA fragmentation, and epigenetic changes, impairing embryo development.
How state bans increase costs and delay abortion care
A new study by researchers at UC San Francisco found that state bans on abortion led to significant increases in travel time, costs, and delays in receiving care. The study, which surveyed 855 people from states with abortion bans, revealed a 17% increase in second-trimester abortions and a 11.3-hour increase in travel time.
Prolonged use of desogestrel pill linked to small increased brain tumour risk
A study found that prolonged use of desogestrel pill is associated with a small increased risk of developing an intracranial meningioma, typically non-cancerous brain tumours. The risk is low compared to other progestogens and disappears one year after stopping treatment.
Menstrual tracking app data is a ‘gold mine’ for advertisers that risks women’s safety – report
A University of Cambridge report argues that menstrual tracking app data is a valuable resource for advertisers but poses significant privacy and safety risks to users. The report calls for better governance of the industry to protect user data and urges public health bodies to launch alternative apps.
Asthma attacks more common for some women taking the progesterone-only pill
A major study found that taking the progesterone-only pill can increase asthma attacks in some women, especially those under 35 and using fewer asthma treatments. Women with eosinophilic asthma were also at a higher risk. The research aims to better understand why women are more likely to have severe asthma than men.
Abortion rates remain relatively stable in Canada, while rates spike in UK, Europe, and US
A study found abortion rates remained steady in Ontario, Canada from 2020-2022, unlike countries across the UK and Europe. The researchers attribute this to Canada's policies supporting primary care and telemedicine abortion care.
Postpartum hormonal contraceptive use and risk of depression
Hormonal contraceptives initiated immediately after childbirth may increase the risk of developing depression in new mothers. Researchers found that combined oral contraceptives were associated with a higher risk of depression when started earlier postpartum.
Oral contraceptives and smoking impact steroid hormone levels in healthy adults
A recent study published in Science Advances found that oral contraceptive use in women is associated with changes in steroid hormone levels, while smoking in men is linked to altered levels of nearly every steroid hormone measured. The study also discovered a link between decreased androgens and various diseases in aging men.
New study: Fewer women want to have children
A new study from Uppsala University found that 75% of women aged 24 wanted to have children, significantly lower than the 91% in 2014. The survey also revealed that 40 women stated they didn't want children due to various reasons, including uncertainty about the future and health concerns.
Engineers develop a better way to deliver long-lasting drugs
The researchers have created a way to deliver certain drugs in higher doses with less pain by injecting them as a suspension of tiny crystals. This approach can enable long-term delivery of contraceptives or treatments for diseases such as HIV, reducing the need for frequent injections.
WVU researchers find babies born to teen mothers are smaller, weigh less
Researchers at West Virginia University found that babies born to teen mothers weigh less and are smaller for their gestational age. The study highlights the role of social, geographical, and educational factors in teen pregnancy prevention.
New study adds to evidence of stroke and heart attack risk with some hormonal contraceptives
A large study from Denmark found that certain hormonal contraceptives increase the risk of ischaemic stroke and heart attack, with oestrogen-containing products carrying the highest risks. The absolute risk remains low, but clinicians should consider these potential risks when prescribing hormonal contraceptives.
Contemporary hormonal contraception and risk of venous thromboembolism
This study found that combined hormonal contraceptives carry the highest risk of venous thromboembolism, especially those containing third-generation progestins. Intrauterine devices and non-use had no significant difference in risk compared to these products.
Your stroke risk might be higher if your parents divorced during your childhood
Researchers analyzed data from 13,205 adults aged 65 and over, finding that those who had experienced parental divorce before age 18 had 1.61 times higher odds of having a stroke. This association remained even after controlling for known risk factors such as diabetes and depression.
What's behind preterm birth? Scientists just found a big clue
UCSF researchers identify a molecular timer controlling mouse birth timing, which could lead to new tests for human preterm labor risk and interventions. DNA packaging during pregnancy plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression, with KDM6B working as a 'timer' that winds down over time.
Shift to less reliable ‘natural’ contraception methods among abortion patients over past 5 years
A shift towards less reliable 'natural' contraception methods, such as period tracking apps, has occurred among women requesting abortion in England and Wales over the past five years. The trend corresponds to a rise in abortion rates, with implications for healthcare services.
Patient-reported influence of sociopolitical issues on post-Dobbs vasectomy decisions
A survey found that nearly a third of patients considered sociopolitical factors when making their decision to undergo a vasectomy after the Dobbs decision. This trend is consistent with recent research indicating an increase in vasectomy procedures following the ruling.
Study reveals rising interest in permanent contraception after Roe v. Wade was overturned
A new study from George Washington University found a significant increase in US young adults seeking permanent contraception following the Dobbs decision. Tubal sterilization and vasectomy utilization have increased among this demographic.
Reduction in teen pregnancy rates could ‘unravel’ as experts warn against ‘complacency’
Despite significant declines in teen pregnancies in the UK, regional disparities persist, and some outcomes worsen. Experts warn that the 'rates are down, so the job is done' mentality may be detrimental to progress.
Grey squirrel control: New study shows promise for effective contraceptive delivery system
A new study has found that grey squirrels are more likely to visit bait feeders in the spring, making it a suitable time to deliver oral contraceptives. The research developed a bait and monitoring system that demonstrated high species-specificity, with only grey squirrels accessing the feeder bait.
Very early medication abortion is effective and safe
A large international study found that very early medication abortion is equally effective and safe as waiting for intrauterine pregnancy confirmation. The study included over 1,500 women who received two drugs – mifepristone and misoprostol – in either a delayed or early abortion group.
Breast cancer in users of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems
A Danish nationwide study found an association between levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) use and increased breast cancer risk in females ages 15 to 49. The absolute breast cancer risk is low, but the study revealed an excess risk of 14 per 10,000 females, which did not increase with duration of use.
Stigma has a profound impact on health outcomes must be addressed
Researchers argue that stigma can play a huge role in health outcomes, leading to disengagement from care, coerced sterilization, and lack of informed choices. Addressing stigma through evidence-based approaches, such as staff training and relationship building, can improve healthcare services.
Study finds minorities more likely to have ‘free’ preventive healthcare denied by insurers
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that racial and ethnic minorities are more likely to have claims for free preventive care denied by insurance plans, leading to unexpected bills or lack of access. Healthcare providers also charge disadvantaged groups a higher amount for preventive services.
Challenges in availing reproductive health services experienced by migrant Nepalese men and women in Japan
Despite free access to contraceptives in Nepal, Nepalese migrant women in Japan face challenges due to language barriers, restrictive healthcare laws, and high costs. The study found that condoms were the most used contraceptive method, while traditional methods like the rhythm method were prevalent in Japan.
Study reveals gaps in access to long-term contraceptive supplies
A study with 4.8 million Medicaid enrollees found that policies requiring 12-month supply of contraception have not been fully implemented, resulting in no substantial increases in year-long prescription orders. This leaves many patients at an increased risk for unintended pregnancy.
Adolescents and young adults’ sources of contraceptive information
A study reveals discrepancies between preferred and actual sources of contraceptive information among adolescents and young adults. Clinicians are the most commonly preferred source, yet they also pose the largest discrepancy between preference and use. This highlights the importance of clinicians in supporting informed contraceptive d...
Sterilization rates among women rose after supreme court abortion ruling
Surgical sterilization rates increased significantly among women in the US following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Supreme Court decision, with a notable rise in states where abortion access was limited or banned. Researchers found that tubal sterilization remained an irreversible method of contraception despite changing state laws.
Tubal sterilization rates by state abortion laws after the Dobbs decision
After the Dobbs decision, tubal sterilization rates rose in all US states, with further monthly increases observed in banned states. Limited states showed a similar trend, while protected states did not exhibit significant changes.
Strictest abortion-ban states offer least family support
A Northwestern University study reveals that states with severe post-Dobbs abortion restrictions also lack policies to support families, particularly those of low socioeconomic status and marginalized individuals. The authors argue that advocates should leverage child protection arguments to advocate for improved family welfare policies.
Ketamine clinics vary widely in pregnancy-related safeguards, study finds
A study found that ketamine clinics have inconsistent policies on pregnancy-related safeguards, including inadequate warning systems and contraception prescription. This is concerning given the potential harm of ketamine to developing fetuses.
Pregnancy after sterilization turns out to be surprisingly common
A new study by UCSF estimates that 3 to 5% of women who undergo tubal sterilization experience unplanned pregnancies within a year. This contradicts the common perception of tubal surgery as a permanent form of birth control. The researchers suggest using alternative methods like IUDs or arm implants for more effective contraception.
Promoting healthy teen romantic relationships to reduce risk of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections
A new multi-site randomized-controlled study evaluates an innovative healthy relationships program for teens. The study found the program may have influenced abstinence but not relationship communication, highlighting the need for tailored program components to address unique environmental contexts.
Evidence-based information combats misleading and false claims on the internet and social media about the anti-Mullerian hormone test
Researchers found that when given accurate information about the anti-Mullerian hormone test, women had less interest in taking the test compared to those who viewed misleading online claims. The study highlights the importance of providing evidence-based information to women seeking fertility treatment.
A hydrogel implant to treat endometriosis
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a hydrogel implant to treat endometriosis by preventing retrograde menstruation and acting as a barrier to sperm. The implant can be easily destroyed and is compatible with native tissue, offering a promising non-surgical solution for women suffering from the condition.
Changes in emergency contraceptive fills after Massachusetts’ statewide standing order
A Massachusetts statewide standing order policy led to a 32% increase in emergency contraceptive fills at pharmacies. The policy's impact was largely attributed to increased prescription-only ulipristal fill rates, which more than doubled after the policy was implemented.