78 Questions
What is the primary source of estrogen in premenopausal women?
Ovaries
What triggers the LH surge at midcycle in females?
Rise in FSH levels
What is the main effect of estrogens on bone health?
Blockage of bone resorption
How do endogenous estrogens affect glucose homeostasis?
Improve glucose tolerance
What is the role of estrogens during the first half of the menstrual cycle?
Cause proliferation of the endometrium
What happens to the corpus luteum at the end of the menstrual cycle?
It atrophies
During which phase of the menstrual cycle are estrogens and progesterone mainly produced by the corpus luteum?
Second half
What is the consequence of a diminished supply of ovarian hormones at the end of the cycle?
Endometrial breakdown
Which event follows ovulation in the sequence of ovarian events?
Ruptured follicle evolves into a corpus luteum
Which of the following is NOT a physiological alteration associated with estrogen?
Enhanced long-term memory
What is a major consideration when prescribing estrogens to patients?
History of liver disease
Which of the following formulations of estradiol offers the advantage of bypassing the liver?
Emulsion
What is a characteristic of phytoestrogens?
Plant-based compounds
In what scenario would intravenous administration of estrogens be used?
Emergency control of heavy uterine bleeding
What is the primary estrogen used for transdermal therapy?
Estradiol
What is the disadvantage of giving progestin cyclically along with continuous estrogen therapy?
Promotion of monthly bleeding
Which medication is commonly used to decrease testosterone levels in transgender women?
Spironolactone
What remains the greatest risk factor associated with estrogen therapy for both transgender and nontransgender patients?
Thromboembolic events
What drug was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2015 for managing Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (FSIAD)?
Sildenafil
What is the only approved indication for long-term progestin therapy alongside estrogen therapy?
Protection against endometrial cancer
Why is the use of estrogen and progestin therapy (EPT) limited to women with an intact uterus?
To protect against endometrial cancer
Which treatment is recommended by the FDA for managing vulvar and vaginal symptoms caused by menopause?
Topical estrogen formulation
Why are alternative treatments preferred over hormone therapy for postmenopausal osteoporosis prevention?
To maintain bone health after discontinuation
Which drug, commonly used for vasomotor symptoms in menopause, was approved in 2013 but has since fallen out of favor?
Paroxetine
What is the primary mechanism by which combination OCs reduce fertility?
Suppressing follicular maturation
Which drug is administered by subcutaneous injection at least 45 minutes before sexual activity occurs?
Bremelanotide (Vyleesi)
Which contraceptive method should be avoided by women with certain cardiovascular disorders as well as women older than 35 years who smoke?
Combination oral contraceptives (OCs)
Which common side effect is associated with the drug Flibanserin (Addyi)?
Hypotension with or without syncopy
What is the most recent drug approved for low libido not associated with medical or mental health problems in women?
Bremelanotide (Vyleesi)
Why does ovarian progesterone production decline after 10 weeks of gestation?
As a result of sufficient progesterone production by the placenta
What is the primary purpose of progestins in hormone therapy (HT)?
To counterbalance estrogen-mediated stimulation of the endometrium
Which progestin is used specifically to support early pregnancy in women undergoing IVF?
Micronized progesterone
Why was hormone therapy (HT) prescribed liberally until the Women’s Health Initiative Study results were published?
To alleviate vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women
What impact did the Women’s Health Initiative Study have on hormone therapy (HT) recommendations?
It led to a reevaluation and recommendation of using the lowest effective dose for the shortest period in specific age groups
Which phytoestrogen is commonly derived from plants such as soy beans and red clover?
Isoflavones
What is a common misconception about phytoestrogen therapy based on the text?
Randomized controlled trials consistently support its use
How do selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) differ from estrogen according to the text?
SERMs activate estrogen receptors in some tissues and block them in others
Why is raloxifene different from tamoxifen, according to the text?
Raloxifene does not activate estrogen receptors in the endometrium, unlike tamoxifen
During which weeks of gestation does the placenta start sharing the production of progesterone with the corpus luteum?
Weeks 7-10
Why is it important to take progestin-only pills (minipills) at the same time every day?
To ensure contraceptive effectiveness
What is the main drawback associated with progestin-only pills (minipills) compared to combination OCs?
Irregular bleeding
What is the recommended action if one or two pills are missed during the second or third week of a 28-day cycle of combination OCs?
Skip the placebo pills and go straight to a new pack
Why might health care providers recommend taking combination OCs for an extended time rather than following the traditional 28-day cycle?
To reduce episodes of withdrawal bleeding
What should be done if three or more pills are missed during the second or third week of a 28-day cycle of combination OCs?
Use an additional form of contraception for 7 days
Why is it recommended to commence successive dosing cycles of combination OCs every 28 days?
To suppress endometrial thickening
What is the recommended backup contraceptive method if two pills of progestin-only OCs are missed?
Restart the regimen and use condoms for at least 2 days
What distinguishes the dosing schedule of the transdermal contraceptive patch from combination OCs?
The patch is administered once a week
What common adverse effect is associated with the use of NuvaRing?
Vaginitis
What is the unique component in Natazia that sets it apart from other combination oral contraceptives?
Dienogest
What is the mechanism of action of Nexplanon in preventing pregnancy?
A combination of inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning endometrium
How do monophasic, biphasic, triphasic, and quadriphasic oral contraceptive regimens differ from each other?
By altering both estrogen and progestin doses throughout the cycle
What is a characteristic of Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate's (DMPA) contraceptive effect?
Inhibits follicular maturation and ovulation
How do oral contraceptives interact with drugs that induce hepatic cytochrome P3A4?
They accelerate the metabolism of oral contraceptives
What is a common reason for discontinuation of Nexplanon use?
Irregular and unpredictable bleeding
What effect do oral contraceptives have on glucose levels in diabetic patients using hypoglycemic agents?
Counteract the benefits of hypoglycemic agents
How do combination oral contraceptives affect the menstrual flow in women who use them?
Reduce menstrual flow volume
What is a potential consequence of combining warfarin with oral contraceptives?
Reduced effectiveness of warfarin
What is the main indication for long-term progestin therapy alongside estrogen therapy?
Reducing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia
What is the primary mechanism by which combination OCs reduce fertility?
Inhibition of ovulation
Why is raloxifene different from tamoxifen, according to the text?
Tamoxifen is associated with a lower risk of endometrial cancer
Which contraceptive method should be avoided by women with certain cardiovascular disorders as well as women older than 35 years who smoke?
Combined oral contraceptives (COCs)
Why are alternative treatments preferred over hormone therapy for postmenopausal osteoporosis prevention?
Hormone therapy has a higher risk of breast cancer
What is a common misconception about phytoestrogen therapy based on the text?
Phytoestrogens can be used indefinitely without side effects
Which of the following estrogens undergoes conversion to ethinyl estradiol in the body?
Mestranol
What is the main reason for the reduced efficacy of oral contraceptives in women with higher weight?
Sequestration of hormones in adipose tissue
Which of the following is NOT a factor that influences the efficacy of oral contraceptives?
Age of the woman
What is the failure rate of oral contraceptives with typical use?
8%
Which generation of progestins in combination oral contraceptives exhibits thrombotic events as a significant side effect?
Third generation
Why are combination oral contraceptives considered more reliable than most alternatives despite their side effects?
Comparable effectiveness with reduced mortality
How soon after unprotected intercourse must a woman take a second tablet of levonorgestrel based on the package insert?
12 hours later
In what situation would mifepristone be considered an abortifacient?
Taken more than 5 days after unprotected intercourse
Which drug requires a prescription for all women regardless of age?
Mifepristone (RU 486)
What is the dosage for ulipristal acetate to be taken up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse?
1 tablet (30 mg)
What is the primary mechanism through which ulipristal acetate prevents conception?
Suppressing ovulation
Which condition is a major contraindication to the use of mifepristone/misoprostol?
Hemorrhagic disorders
What is the primary action of mifepristone in preventing pregnancy?
Blocking progesterone receptors
Which side effect is NOT commonly associated with the use of mifepristone?
Blurred vision
"Cotreatment with misoprostol is usually required" for which medication?
"Mifepristone (RU 486)"
Study Notes
Estrogens and Progesterones
- Estrogens and progesterone are produced by the ovaries and play a crucial role in the menstrual cycle
- During the first half of the cycle, estrogens are secreted by maturing ovarian follicles, causing proliferation of the endometrium
- At midcycle, one of the ovarian follicles ruptures, forming a corpus luteum, which produces estrogens and progesterone
- The corpus luteum maintains the endometrium in a hypertrophied state until the end of the cycle
- Decreased production of ovarian hormones leads to breakdown of the endometrium and menstruation
Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
- Two anterior pituitary hormones, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), regulate the menstrual cycle
- FSH acts on developing ovarian follicles, causing them to mature and secrete estrogens
- LH surge at midcycle causes the dominant follicle to rupture, releasing an ovum
- LH also stimulates the corpus luteum to produce progesterone
Estrogens
- Estrogens are produced by the ovaries and are responsible for the growth and maturation of the female reproductive tract
- Estrogens also direct pigmentation of the nipples and genitalia
- During the follicular phase, estrogens promote ductal growth in the breast, thickening of the vaginal epithelium, and proliferation of the uterine epithelium
- Estrogens also increase vaginal acidity and stimulate uterine blood flow and growth
Physiologic Effects of Estrogens
- Estrogens have a positive effect on bone by blocking bone resorption and promoting mineral deposition
- Estrogens lower cardiovascular risk by decreasing vasoconstriction and raising HDL
- Estrogens promote blood coagulation and have a neuroprotective effect
- Estrogens preserve cognitive function, enhance short-term memory, and regulate mood
Therapeutic Uses of Estrogens
- Estrogens are used for menopausal hormone therapy (HT), female hypogonadism, and acne
- Estrogens are also used for cancer palliation and gender affirmation therapy for transgender women
Adverse Effects of Estrogens
- Estrogens can cause endometrial hyperplasia, endometrial cancer, breast cancer, and cardiovascular thromboembolic events
- Estrogens are contraindicated in patients with a history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolus, or liver disease
Progesterone
- Progesterone is produced by the ovaries and placenta
- Progesterone is synthesized by the corpus luteum in response to LH
- Progesterone production by the corpus luteum ceases if implantation of a fertilized ovum does not occur
Therapeutic Uses of Progesterone
- Progesterone is used for HT, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, amenorrhea, and endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma
- Progesterone is also used to support early pregnancy in women undergoing IVF and to prevent preterm birth
Adverse Effects of Progesterone
- Progesterone can cause breast tenderness, headache, abdominal discomfort, arthralgias, and depression
Hormone Therapy (HT)
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HT consists of low doses of estrogen (with or without a progestin) taken to compensate for the loss of estrogen during menopause
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HT is used to control menopausal symptoms, including vasomotor symptoms, sleep disturbances, and improved cognition and mood
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The risks of HT, including breast cancer and thromboembolic events, must be weighed against its benefits### Hormone Therapy (HT) for Menopause
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HT has three approved indications: treatment of vasomotor symptoms, genitourinary syndrome, and prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
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Duration of treatment is relatively short for vasomotor symptoms and genitourinary syndrome (typically 3 to 4 years), but lifelong for prevention of osteoporosis.
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HT is the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms, and the lowest effective dosage should be used to increase safety.
Alternatives to HT
- Two antidepressants, escitalopram and desvenlafaxine, can reduce hot flashes.
- Other options, such as clonidine and pregabalin, have also shown some success.
- Soy isoflavones and black cohosh are not effective in reducing hot flashes.
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause
- HT is the most effective treatment for genitourinary syndrome, characterized by dryness, irritation, and uncomfortable intercourse.
- Topical estrogen formulations, such as vaginal creams and rings, are safer than oral estrogen and can be used to manage vulvar and vaginal symptoms.
Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
- HT reduces bone loss and decreases the risk of osteoporosis and related fractures.
- However, when HT is stopped, bone mass rapidly decreases, and alternative treatments are preferred.
Inappropriate Uses of HT
- HT is not recommended for cardiovascular disease or dementia.
- Discontinuation of HT may cause vasomotor symptoms to return, and no firm guidelines exist for stopping HT.
Estrogen and Progestin Therapy
- Estrogen and progestin are commonly administered continuously, but an alternative is to give estrogen continuously and give progestin cyclically.
- Vaginal estrogens can be given continuously for 1 to 2 weeks, followed by dosing 1 to 3 times per week.
Transgender Hormonal Therapy
- Transgender women require medication to decrease testosterone levels and estrogen to promote female characteristics.
- Management is highly individualized, and monitoring of therapy must include the effects of estrogen and antiandrogens.
- Risks of HT are the same as for nontransgender patients.
Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (FSIAD)
- FSIAD is a common problem in women, especially after menopause.
- Treatment options include off-label use of drugs such as sildenafil and testosterone, and newly approved drugs such as flibanserin and bremelanotide.
Birth Control
- Several factors should be considered when choosing a method of birth control, including effectiveness, safety, and personal preference.
- The most effective methods are etonogestrel subdermal implants, intramuscular medroxyprogesterone acetate, sterilization, and IUDs.
- Combination oral contraceptives (OCs) are effective, but their effectiveness is impacted by factors such as weight and smoking.
Contraceptive Methods
- OCs reduce fertility primarily by inhibiting ovulation.
- Combination OCs employ three estrogens: ethinyl estradiol, mestranol, and estradiol valerate.
- Progestins in OCs can be grouped into four generations, with differences in side effects and efficacy.
- OCs can have a wide range of adverse effects, including nausea, menstrual irregularity, and thromboembolic disorders.
Oral Contraceptives (OCs)
-
OCs are available in monophasic, biphasic, and triphasic formulations, with different levels of estrogen and progestin.
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OCs can decrease the risk of several disorders, including ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and acne.
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OCs can interact with other drugs, including warfarin, hypoglycemic agents, and theophylline.
-
Some OCs contain levomefolate, a metabolite of folic acid, to reduce the risk of fetal neural tube defects.### Combination Oral Contraceptives (OCs)
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Most OCs are taken in a repeating sequence of 21 days of active pills followed by 7 days of inactive pills or iron-containing pills.
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The sequence can be started on the first day of the menstrual cycle or the first Sunday after the onset of menses.
-
With a Sunday start, backup contraception is recommended for the first 7 days.
-
Each dose should be taken at the same time every day to maintain effectiveness.
Extended or Continuous Cycle OCs
- 14 products are packaged and marketed for prolonged use, decreasing episodes of withdrawal bleeding and associated symptoms.
- Successive dosing cycles should commence every 28 days, even if there is breakthrough bleeding or spotting.
Missed Doses
- If one or more pills are missed in the first week, take one pill as soon as possible and continue with the pack, using an additional form of contraception for 7 days.
- If one or two pills are missed during the second or third week, take one pill as soon as possible and continue with the active pills, skipping the placebo pills and starting a new pack once all active pills have been taken.
- If three or more pills are missed during the second or third week, follow the same instructions as above, using an additional form of contraception for 7 days.
Progestin-Only OCs (Minipills)
- Contain a progestin but no estrogen, making them safer than combination OCs but less effective.
- Alter cervical secretions, making them thicker and stickier, and modify the endometrium, making it less favorable for implantation.
- Taking the pill at the same time every day is crucial, as missing a dose by even 3 hours can reduce efficacy.
- Backup contraception is recommended if unprotected sexual intercourse occurs.
Transdermal Contraceptive Patch
- Has the same mechanism as combination OCs, but with a more convenient dosing schedule (once a week).
- Has the same contraceptive efficacy and incidence of breakthrough bleeding and spotting as combination OCs.
- Adverse effects include breast discomfort, headache, local irritation, nausea, and menstrual cramps.
NuvaRing
- A hormonal contraceptive device designed for vaginal insertion, containing an estrogen/progestin combination.
- Prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation.
- Adverse effects, drug interactions, warnings, and contraindications are the same as for combination OCs.
- Insertion is done by the user, and a new ring is inserted after a ring-free week.
Nexplanon
- A single 4-cm rod containing 68 mg of etonogestrel, a synthetic progestin, implanted subdermally in the arm.
- Provides contraception for 3 years, with recent studies showing effectiveness up to 5 years.
- Bleeding episodes are irregular and unpredictable, and bleeding irregularities are the leading reason for discontinuation.
- Safe to use during breastfeeding after the 21st postpartum day.
Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA)
- Given by injection intramuscularly or subcutaneously, protecting against pregnancy for 3 months or longer.
- Inhibits the secretion of gonadotropins, thereby inhibiting follicular maturation and ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and causing thinning of the endometrium.
- Adverse effects include menstrual disturbances, mild weight gain, abdominal bloating, headache, depression, and decreased libido.
- Poses a risk for reversible bone loss, but this risk does not outweigh the benefits of treatment.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
- Among the most reliable forms of reversible birth control, with two main classes: hormone-free copper IUDs and levonorgestrel-containing IUDs.
- Can cause cramping and alteration of menses, with main side effects including heavier menstrual bleeding and cramping for copper IUDs, and bleeding irregularities for levonorgestrel-containing IUDs.
Spermicides
- Chemical surfactants that kill sperm by destroying their cell membranes, available in various formulations.
- When used alone, spermicides are only moderately effective, but combined use with a diaphragm or condom increases efficacy.
- Adverse effects include vaginal irritation and dryness.
Emergency Contraception (EC)
- Defined as contraception implemented after intercourse, with safe and effective methods available for decades.
- Can be accomplished in two basic ways: taking an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) or inserting a copper-T IUD.
- Three progestin-only products are available: Plan B One-Step, Next Choice One Dose, and Next Choice, which contain levonorgestrel.
- Ulipristal acetate is another ECP that prevents conception primarily by suppressing ovulation.
Test your knowledge of common oral and transdermal estrogens like conjugated equine estrogens, estradiol, and estropipate, as well as estrogen/progestin combinations such as conjugated equine estrogens/medroxyprogesterone acetate and estradiol/norethindrone acetate.
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