Abstract

PIP: A monitoring of congenital malformation statistics for Hungary during the years 1970-75 showed a somewhat higher incidence of congenital limb reduction malformations during 1973-74. A further increase was observed in 1975, with increases continuing in 1976-77. The observed higher incidence cannot be attributed to a better reporting system, changed evaluation of congenital malformations, or improved diagnoses. The question as to whether the higher incidence is attributable to an increased use of OCs (oral contraceptives) is investigated. The occurrence of different nosological types of CLRMs (congenital limb reduction malformations) is tabulated. A more restrictive abortion law went into effect in Hungary in 1974, followed by an increase in live births and a decrease in the number of abortions. As a result, more women began using OCs, even as a method of inducing abortions. Examination of the women who had CLRM infants showed that use of OCs within 3 months of conception was twice as high in this group as in a control group. No direct teratogenic effect of OCs, other than a masculinization of female fetuses, has yet been proven. It is suspected that the effect is indirect, operating only in predisposed patients. A 3-month interval between OC use and a planned conception is recommended. Research into predisposing factors to indirect teratogenic effects is necessary.