title: Sickle cell diseases and hormonal contraception.
abstract: The available data on the use of oral contraceptive agents in patients with sickle cell diseases is reviewed. The attitude which considers sickle cell anemia to be a contra-indication to OC's cannot be supported on the basis of available evidence. On the contrary, there are a number of reports where favorable effects of steroids on 'sickling' have been described. It is concluded that modern low-dose combined OC's are the method of choice for contraception in all patients carrying the HbS gene.
mesh_terms: D000755:Anemia, Sickle Cell; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D003276:Contraceptives, Oral / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D003276:Contraceptives, Oral