Retrospective observational and descriptive study on the management of changes in bleeding patterns associated with the etonogestrel subdermal implant

Abstract

Objective: To analyze various treatment schemes for menstrual cycle disturbances associated with the use of subdermal contraceptive implants containing etonorgestrel in women aged 10 to 19 years treated at the Adolescent Clinic of Calderón Guardia Hospital from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2021. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study involving a review of patient records retrieved from the database of patients who received subdermal contraceptive implant placement at Calderón Guardia Hospital. Population: Patients who had a subdermal implant with etonorgestrel inserted between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021, at Calderón Guardia Hospital. Results: Out of the total number of patients who received the subdermal contraceptive implant (N=582), 243 met the established inclusion criteria. 25% of the patients required treatment due to abnormal uterine bleeding associated with the etonorgestrel subdermal implant. The treatment schemes used included combined oral contraceptives for 3 months, monthly injectable (one injection per month for 3 months), and progestin-only contraceptive for 3 months. The clinical improvement of the patients in terms of bleeding was subjectively assessed since the initiation of treatment. Conclusion: The number of patients who required pharmacological treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding associated with the use of the subdermal implant with etonogestrel was 25%. Clinical improvement was subjectively evaluated, with 82% reporting improvement, of which 60% reported being completely satisfied with the prescribed treatment, and 22% partially satisfied.