Steroid receptor expression in vaginal epithelium of healthy fertile women and influences of hormonal contraceptive usage.

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate whether long-term usage of hormonal contraceptives modifies the steroid receptor expression in the human vaginal epithelium of healthy young women.

Methods: In a cross-sectional study, three groups of hormonal contraceptive users [combined oral contraceptives (COCs), levonorgestrel implants (LNG) and depot medroxyprogesterone acetate injections (DMPAs)] were compared to controls. Fifteen subjects (20-34 years) were enrolled to each group.

Influence of hormonal contraceptives on the immune cells and thickness of human vaginal epithelium.

Objective: To determine whether use of steroid hormone contraceptives modifies immune defense parameters of the vaginal epithelium in humans.

Methods: Vaginal biopsies were collected during the follicular and luteal phases in regularly menstruating women (controls) and in women using combined oral contraceptives, depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate injections, or levonorgestrel implants. Fifteen healthy women (aged 20-34 years) were enrolled in each group.

Treatment-related and treatment-independent deliveries among infertile couples, a long-term follow-up.

Background: The aim of this hospital based long-term follow-up study was to further elucidate resolved and unresolved infertility in relation to risk factors and perinatal outcome considering treatment-related and treatment independent pregnancies.

Methods: The study included all couples attending the out-patient clinic of the Department of Gynecology in Umeå due to failure to initiate a pregnancy after at least 12 months during the period 1.1.