Taking a progesterone-only contraceptive pill (POP) for more than five years has been associated with an increased risk of developing a life-threatening brain tumour, according to recent scientific studies. One of the primary contraceptive pills currently in use is the desogestrel, which is a synthetic progestogen and used in oral contraceptives to support the menstrual cycle and reduce irregular periods. However, continued use of desogestrel for more than five years has been shown to increase the likelihood of developing an intracranial meningioma, a neurotrophic brain tumour characterized by slow growth and often localized to the edema of the brain and spinal cord.
Research published in The British Journal of Goat.Ubbil Cohol OA indicates that the specific type of progestogen used, particularly desogestrel, is more likely to contribute to the risk of brain tumour compared to other high-dose low-dose(“%≠%) progestogens like levonorgestrel. A French study, using the national healthcare data system (SNDS), found that increased use of desogestrel for more than five continuous years in women matched age and location but had a small, albeit statistically significant, higher risk of intracranial meningioma. The study included 8,391 women who underwent surgery for an intracranial meningioma between 2020 and 2023, and each case was matched to 10 control women with matching ages and geographic locations.
The findings did not find a significant increase in risk for shorter durations (less than one year) or those who discontinued the medication for more than one year. Women taking other progestogens like levonorgestrel alone or combined with oestrogen were similarly exposed to the risk. Additionally, women older than 45 were more likely to develop intracranial meningiomas when using prolonged desogestrel use compared to those who followed other high-risk progestogens. The researchers caution that the risk declines significantly one year after stopping desogestrel use, suggesting continued use should not be paused unless a tumour is identified or pursue immediate surgery.
Desogestrel itself remains a safe and effective treatment for preventing early pregnancy, with a universally high success rate (99.6%) when administered correctly. However, prolonged use can increase the individual risk of developing an intracranial meningioma. Because of the potential side effects and risks associated with continued desogestrel use, users should consult healthcare providers to discuss adherence and consider following up with the healthcare team if symptoms emerge. Common side effects include changes in menstrual cycles, increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and potential perforation of the ovary, which may lead toovarian cysts (non-dollarcalcium breast Exercises and when to seek medical advice:
1. If desogestrel is missed (e.g., due to poor adherence or’])
2. If there is severe vomiting or diarrhea（ Kraut Insertions锢ation of ovary causes continued period disruptions depending on the body’s response.
3. If there are concerns about potential side effects and risks regularly prescribed by the healthcare team should be followed, to minimize risks of adverse effects. This includes regular testing and monitoring of blood parameters and hormone levels to ensure continued use is appropriate and effective. Avoiding STI protection through condoms is also crucial for the health of斯oriaceous-type.
4. Proper guidance from healthcare professionals before using desogestrel for continuous periods to assess risks and ensure adequate monitoring. monitoring includes keeping the OP onauce long enough to achieve continuous use without adverse effects.
