Plasma immunoglobulin, total protein and albumin levels during Norplant use by Nigerian women.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effect of Norplant on plasma immunoglobulins, albumin and total proteins.


METHODS
A longitudinal prospective study of Norplant (six capsules) subdermal contraceptive implant acceptors.


METHODS
Family Planning Clinic, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.


METHODS
36 women volunteers aged 18-40 years on Norplant.


METHODS
Serum immunoglobulins, albumin and total protein before, one, three and 12 months after Norplant insertion.


RESULTS
No statistically significant changes were observed in plasma levels of IgA, IgM and total proteins but plasma levels of IgG showed statistically significant increases after one, three and 12 months on Norplant.


CONCLUSIONS
Norplant does not seem to alter IgM, IgA, albumin and total protein levels over a period of 12 months. It, however, induces significant changes in IgG levels at one, three and 12 months after insertion. These changes are less marked by the end of 12 months.
Otolorin
E Q
EQ
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Adeyefa
I
I
Konje
J C
JC
Ojengbede
O
O
Osotimehin
B
B
Ladipo
O A
OA
D000328:Adult; D001798:Blood Proteins / Q000032:analysis*; D004343:Drug Implants; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007136:Immunoglobulins / Q000097:blood*; D016912:Levonorgestrel / Q000494:pharmacology*; D009549:Nigeria; D012709:Serum Albumin / Q000032:analysis
D001798:Blood Proteins; D004343:Drug Implants; D007136:Immunoglobulins; D012709:Serum Albumin; D016912:Levonorgestrel