Contraception and the dermatologist

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013 Jun;68(6):1022-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2012.11.018. Epub 2013 Jan 17.

Abstract

Contraceptives are pertinent to dermatologists in 3 major instances: (1) prescribing combined oral contraceptives for the treatment of acne; (2) ensuring that women being treated with potential teratogens are on adequate contraception; and (3) counseling female patients regarding contraceptives that can worsen acne. Most modern combined oral contraceptives will benefit acne; however, there are some agents that may be more effective than others, primarily because of the progestin used in the agent. Long-acting reversible contraceptives should be first line for women on teratogenic medications, but some of these agents can worsen acne because they release progestins.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris / drug therapy*
  • Contraception Behavior
  • Contraceptive Agents, Female / administration & dosage
  • Contraceptives, Oral, Combined / adverse effects
  • Contraceptives, Oral, Combined / therapeutic use*
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Dermatology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intramuscular
  • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate / administration & dosage
  • Physician's Role
  • Skin Diseases / chemically induced
  • Skin Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Thromboembolism / chemically induced

Substances

  • Contraceptive Agents, Female
  • Contraceptives, Oral, Combined
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate