Abstract

PIP: Growth hormone levels were studied in 18 women aged 19-34 years, of whom 7 were being treated with oral contraceptives (Lyndiol, Ovulen, Anovlar, Conluten). A significant increase was observed in the treated women; the range was also larger in these cases. During menstruation, control subjects showed a similar pattern. Free fatty acid levels are also higher in the treated group. There is no evidence that the change in growth hormone levels is of clinical significance, although the changes in glucose tolerance and lipid metabolism observed during contraceptive treatment may be caused by growth hormone. This hormone imbalance is of unknown etiology. It has been suggested that it may be due to increased prolactin synthisis (inhibition of the hypothalamic prolactin releasing inhibitor) when follicle stimulating hormone levels are low, as during treatment with oral contraceptives and during the early part of the menstrual period.