Oral Health of Women Using Oral Contraceptive Pills in Saudi Arabia

Study Reveals Impact of OCP Usage on Oral Health of Saudi Women

SAUDI ARABIA: A recent cross-sectional study conducted in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, has shed light on the oral health conditions and attitudes of Saudi women using oral contraceptive pills (OCPs). The study, authored by researchers from King Abdulaziz University, aimed to evaluate the effects of OCP usage on the oral health of women in the region.

OCPs and Their Impact

Oral contraceptive pills, commonly referred to as OCPs, are a widely used form of hormonal contraception by women around the world. While OCPs are known for their primary use in family planning and contraception, they also serve other purposes, including regulating menstruation and reducing the risk of ovarian cysts. 

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These pills typically contain synthetic hormones, progestins, and estrogens, which work to prevent ovulation. In the United States, it’s estimated that over 50 million women use OCPs. However, with their widespread usage comes various systemic and oral side effects.

Study Findings

The study involved a questionnaire-based survey administered to Saudi women in Jeddah who were OCP users. Some key findings emerged:

• Among the participants, 125 women (35.9%) reported using contraceptives, and 94 (75.2%) of them were OCP users.
• Most of the OCP users had been taking these pills for a period of 1-5 years (39.4%), followed by more than 5 years (34.0%), and less than 1 year (26.6%).
• Dental complications were prevalent among OCP users, with 36.2% experiencing gingival diseases, 24.5% seeking treatment for their gums, and 13.8% regularly cleaning their gums at a dental clinic.
• Oral hygiene habits were also a part of the study, with 34% brushing once a day, 50% brushing twice daily, and 16% brushing three times a day.
• Other habits were noted, including 4.3% of participants who were smokers, 25.5% who took medications other than OCPs, and 17.02% with chronic diseases.
• Common oral complications reported included gum bleeding after brushing (51.6%), dental caries (25.5%), and oral ulcers (10.6%).

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Oral Health Implications

The findings of the study raise concerns about the oral health of women using OCPs. Specifically, OCP users were found to have a high incidence of gingival bleeding, dental caries, and oral ulcers. This emphasizes the need for dental practitioners to be aware of the oral health challenges that may arise from the use of these contraceptive pills. An oral hygiene program may be necessary to address these issues and provide adequate care for periodontal and gingival inflammation exacerbated by OCPs.

This research further highlights the importance of understanding the oral health implications of hormonal medications. Notably, the study underscores the need for women and healthcare professionals to be aware of the potential side effects of OCPs on oral health.

The researchers aim to continue their investigations into the impact of OCP usage on oral health and further explore the systemic and oral side effects that can occur.

About the Study

The study was conducted by researchers from the Department of Oral Biology and the Department of Periodontology at King Abdulaziz University, along with professionals from the AlRuhaily Medical Center and the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences. The questionnaire-based survey was designed to evaluate attitudes and oral health conditions among Saudi women using oral contraceptive pills.

Understanding the Link Between OCPs and Oral Health

This study is part of a growing body of research aimed at understanding how hormonal contraceptives impact oral health. Beyond their primary purpose, hormonal contraceptives can have a range of effects, and women using OCPs should be aware of potential side effects. As we learn more about the connections between hormones and oral health, individuals and healthcare providers can take steps to mitigate potential issues and maintain good oral hygiene.