Effectiveness of the etonogestrel subdermal implant in users with overweight and obesity: a systematic literature review
Year: 2024
Type: review
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: BACKGROUND: The etonogestrel (ENG) subdermal implant is considered a well-tolerated and effective contraception option to avoid unintended pregnancies. However, it is unclear whether being affected by overweight or obesity diminishes the effectiveness of the implant. OBJECTIVES: To systematically assess the published evidence on implant contraceptive effectiveness in women with overweight or obesity, and in women who underwent bariatric surgery. SEARCH STRATEGY: A systematic search of MEDLINE and Embase for publications reporting implant effectiveness since 2011. SELECTION CRITERIA: Primary publications of randomised and non-randomised trials, observational studies and case reports were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two independent reviewers identified the Pearl Index, qualitative descriptions of contraceptive failure, implant exposure and potential bias, and assessed overall quality of evidence. MAIN RESULTS: We found 12 publications meeting our criteria, consisting of nine observational studies and three case reports. Excluding case reports, the publications reported Pearl Indices from 0.0/100 women-years (WY) to 0.23/100WY for women with overweight and obesity, respectively. No studies met the eligibility criteria for the post-bariatric surgery population. CONCLUSIONS: Observed implant effectiveness in women with overweight and obesity falls within the range of published data across all weight groups (0.0-1.4/100 WY) and does not suggest a reduced effectiveness associated with higher body mass index. Large, well-controlled studies designed to specifically assess the effectiveness of the ENG implant with respect to user weight, particularly in women following bariatric surgery, are warranted.
Source: BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4403782313