EVALUATION OF PROTEIN C IN WOMEN USING HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVES IN OGBOMOSO, OYO STATE, NIGERIA (2023).

Hormonal contraception refers to birth control methods that act on the endocrine system. It is primarily used for the prevention of pregnancy, but is also prescribed for the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome, menstrual disorders such as dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia, and hirsutism. Hormonal methods of birth control (contraception) contain either estrogen and progestin or progestin only; they are a safe and reliable way to prevent pregnancy for most people. Protein C is a glycoprotein, predominantly synthesized in the liver, that is an important component of the natural anticoagulant system in the body. It is a Vitamin K dependent and serve as an essential component in maintaining physiologic hemostasis. A deficiency of protein C results in the loss of these natural anticoagulant properties, resulting in unchecked thrombin generation and thromboembolism. The aim of this study is to determine the Protein C level of women using hormonal contraceptives in Ogbomoso. A total of 40 subjects were recruited for this study from Lautech Teaching Hospital. All the subjects were assayed for protein C. During this study, 4.5ml of blood was collected from each subject into 3.2% sodium citrate bottle (1:9). All samples were screened using a sandwich-ELISA (Elabscience) for the detection of human protein C (Human PROC). All tests were carried out according to the manufacturer's instructions as outlined in the package inserts. This study revealed that combined oral contraceptives pill (COCP) has increasing effect on its users. Ninety-five percent (95%) of hormonal contraceptives users do not experience any reaction after usage. Sixty percent (60%) of hormonal contraceptives users engaged in hormonal birth control for child spacing. Intradermal implant is the commonly used hormonal contraceptives among women in Ogbomoso. Hormonal contraceptives usages among Ogbomoso women do not significantly affect their Protein C level.