Is all hormonal contraception the same? Is all hormonal contraception implicated in possible effects on HIV transmission?
All hormonal contraception is not the same. There are many varieties, each with its particular formulation. All contain one of a class of hormones called “progestins,” while some also contain different hormones known as “estrogens.” This is important, because evidence to date suggests that – if there is an effect of hormonal contraception on HIV transmission – it is likely that it is progestins that have the most serious negative effect. Estrogens, on the other hand, may actually be somewhat protective. Even in those hormonal contraceptives that contain estrogens, however, the progestin portion of the formulation is more active, or “dominant.” Not surprisingly, then, such evidence as we have to date suggests that “progestin-only” contraceptives (such as Depo-provera) may have a more serious effect on HIV transmission than “combined” contraceptives (such as the most common oral contraceptive pills), but that even “combined” hormonal contraceptives may have a net detrimental effect.
Related Questions
- Has anyone looked at real people, outside the lab, to see if an effect of hormonal contraception on HIV transmission is really taking place?
- Is all hormonal contraception the same? Is all hormonal contraception implicated in possible effects on HIV transmission?
- When did scientists become concerned that hormonal contraception might affect HIV transmission?
