Assessment of Platelet Counts in Women Using Hormonal Contraceptives Visiting State Specialist Hospital Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria

Background: Contraceptives are synthetic hormones as progestogen or a combination of oestrogen and progestogen. The side effects associated with contraceptives raise significant concerns, particularly regarding their impact on blood coagulation factors since numerous studies have established a direct link between hormonal contraceptive use and an increased risk of thrombosis. Objectives: This research investigates the platelet counts of women utilizing hormonal contraceptives at the Family Planning Clinic of State Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri, Nigeria. Method: This was a cross-sectional observational study involving 96 women (aged 18-45 years) who had been using hormonal contraceptives for over two months, in comparison to 44 non-users as control subjects. Data was gathered through interviews and platelet count measurements, which were conducted using a manual haemocytometric technique. Result: Contraceptive users had significantly higher platelet counts than non-users, with the highest levels seen in the younger age group (18-25 years). A slight reduction in platelet counts was observed among long-term users (over two years). There is significant relationship between contraceptive usage and platelet count, highlighting an increased thrombotic risk for users. However, the association between the duration of use and platelet count was less significant. Conclusion: The research underscores that the use of hormonal contraceptives leads to a notable increase in platelet counts compared to non-users, with variations depending on age and the length of use. While hormonal contraceptives effectively serve family planning needs, it is essential to recognise their potential haematological effects, particularly the heightened risk of thrombotic incidents.