Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Synthetic female sex hormones are the cornerstone of many contraceptive methods. The combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are generally used in good faith but they can disrupt the intricate balance of the body's systems, potentially affecting the normal functioning of the vital organs in females. This study examined the synergistic effect of two common synthetic hormones used in COCs - Ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel. The study focused on the histopathological changes and oxidative stress levels in spleen and liver using female BALB/c mice. The mice were exposed to two different doses of the COC – Human Equivalent Dose (HED: 0.74µg COC/20g body weight) and ten times that of human equivalent dose (10HED: 7.4µg COC/20g body weight) and significant histopathological and biochemical changes in the organs were observed. The results indicate a dose dependent effect on the histoarchitecture of both the tissues. The significant alterations in activities of stress related enzymes also highlight the susceptibility of these organs to oxidative damage induced by synthetic hormones. We suggest that the long-term use of these drugs could potentially lead to serious impact on non reproductive off-target organs which may generate severe health implications in females and hence it is crucial to explore strategies that mitigate their potential side effects. Key findings: Spleen and liver tissues from hormone-treated female mice unveiled significant histopathological damage, suggesting severe impact on the non-reproductive organs. Biochemical analysis of antioxidant enzymes suggests that synthetic female sex hormone use may increase oxidative stress in females. The findings highlight potential long-term health risks with crucial implications for public health and underscores the urgent need for further investigation into the long term effects of COCs on female health.
Author: Nidhi Srivastava
Institution: Maharaja Agrasen University
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4406707772