A Comparison of the Non-Life-Threatening Side Effect Profiles of Five Different Types of Hormonal Contraception: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Objective: Fair and balanced contraception counselling and patient-led decision-making increase user satisfaction and compliance. The primary objective of this study was to determine the non-life-threatening SE profiles between different hormonal contraceptive methods among Jewish Israeli women ages 18-50. A secondary objective was to assess the prevalence of use of different HC methods in this population. Methods: Data were collected via an online survey using Google Forms. A cross-sectional study design was used. Participants (N=526) were recruited from February to April 2022. Descriptive statistics and associations between contraceptive type, demographics, and women’s perceptions of patient-doctor communication were analyzed. Results: Participants used combined oral contraceptives (COC) (46.2%), hormonal intrauterine devices (hIUD) (27.8%), progesterone-only pills (POP) (13.5%), vaginal rings (9.9%), and transdermal patches (2.7%). Most women (75.9%) reported suffering from SEs, including reduced sex drive (45.8%), weight gain (30.4%), and vaginal dryness (21.1%). Women using the IUD reported significantly fewer side effects than women using the COC and/or ring. Significant differences in the number of side effects were reported among COC users based on progestin components, such as gestodene, nomegestrol acetate, or desogestrel. Most women reported that they did not discuss non-life-threatening SE with their health care providers (HCP) before (51.7%) or after (64.9%) initiation. Conclusions: Different SE profiles were reported across HC and progestin types for COCs. Our findings may provide updated and accessible information for both patients and providers and facilitate respectful, balanced, and personalized decision-making.