Perception of users of a Family Health Unit in Campo Grande about the impact of systemic contraceptive methods (oral or injectable) on the oral cavity

Abstract

Women are the main users of the Unified Health System (SUS) and some public policies are aimed at family planning through the use of contraceptive methods (CM). For this purpose, synthetic female sex hormones are widely prescribed in the form of oral contraceptives (regular or emergency) or intramuscular contraceptives (injections). However, these therapeutic formulations are correlated with some systemic and oral side effects, with an emphasis on periodontal alterations. The aim of this study was to report on the perception of women at a Family Health Unit (USF) in Campo Grande-MS about the adverse effects caused by oral and injectable CM in the oral cavity. A cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was carried out using a self-administered questionnaire at the Dr. Hélio Martins Coelho USF. The data was organized and analyzed using absolute and percentage descriptive statistics. A total of 117 women aged between 18 and 45 (mean 30.93) took part in the study, with women aged up to 35 (69.23%) standing out, with 91 (77.8%) already having children. As for the use of CM, the most commonly used were oral (61.4%) followed by quarterly injections (38.4%). The medications were prescribed by gynecologists (44.7%), general practitioners (32.4%), nurses (9.6%) and other professionals (13.1%). Systemic adverse effects were observed by 71 women (62.34%), while oral adverse effects were observed by 16 (13.68%), mainly through xerostomia, gingival hyperplasia and tooth mobility. Only 9 (7.69%) participants had ever received any advice about possible adverse effects. For the use of emergency contraception, reports of bleeding gums, increased plaque and lesions on the oral mucosa were found. The research reveals that women on low incomes and using mainly oral contraceptives and quarterly injections had a low perception of oral adverse effects compared to systemic effects, although the presence of xerostomia, gingival hyperplasia and tooth mobility were mentioned.