[Dynamics of the cervical mucosae during hormonal contraception by low-dose estrogens. A controlled prospective clinical study].

The Authors report the results of a prospective clinical study by means of colposcopy, planimetric measurements of iodine-light areas, cytology and target biopsy on 140 women taking low-dosage oral contraceptives and 140 controls. A basal examination and a follow up control at a mean interval of 13 months (min. 6, max. 30 months) have been performed. Colposcopy has shown no qualitative changes during follow up, neither in cases nor in controls. Planimetric measurements have shown a significant reduction of Ectropion and AnTZ in cases in comparison to controls, and more NTZ both in cases and controls. Cytology has shown at follow up a higher and significant reduction of phlogosis and viral cytopathic effect in cases. The results related to CIN, although non significant because of the small case group and the relatively short follow up, appeared more favorable in cases. In conclusion, oral contraception appears not to negatively affect the uterine cervix as far as cervical cancer is concerned but possibly to be protective. Nevertheless a longer follow up and a wider case group are needed in order to reach definitive results.