Androgenicity of the progestin in oral contraceptives does not affect maximal leg strength

Abstract

Purpose This study was conducted to examine androgenicity of the progestin in oral contraceptive pills and its effect on maximal leg strength in females. Methods Twelve participants who were using a monophasic pill containing 30 μg ethinylestradiol plus either 150 μg levonorgestrel (LEV) or 250 μg norgestimate (NOR) for at least the last 6 months were recruited (mean±SEM; LEV: age, 19.8±0.3 years; stature, 1.67±0.17 m; mass, 65.9±1.9 kg; NOR: age, 20.6±0.2 years; stature, 1.65±0.17 m; mass, 64.6±2.4 kg). Three maximal isokinetic extension and flexion tests were performed on three occasions (Days 3–6, 11–14 and 18–21 of the pill cycle) to assess peak extension and peak flexion torque (in Newton meters). Results No significant (p>.05) differences were found in the LEV and NOR groups in peak extension torque ( F=0.719; p=.416) or peak flexion torque ( F=0.291, p=.601) throughout the pill cycle and between groups. Conclusion In this small study, the androgenicity of the progestin in the contraceptive pill had no significant association with maximal strength in these female athletes.