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Oral contraceptives (OCs) and menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) contain exogenous sex hormones and are used by millions of women worldwide. Recent studies, however, have revealed a connection between artificial sex hormones and the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Researchers from the Department of Immunology, Genetics, and Pathology at Uppsala University in Sweden delved deeper into this association.
The Link Between Menopause and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory joint disorder. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation and tissue damage. It commonly affects the hands, wrists, and knees.
Women are approximately three times more likely to develop RA compared to men. The onset of menopause is also associated with the development of RA, although other factors influence the risk. Specifically, early menopause (before the age of 45) increases the chances of developing arthritis, especially in the postmenopausal period.
Research Findings
This study has been based on data from over 200,000 women in the UK Biobank database. Scientists have also estimated the influence of MHT on the subsequent risk of developing RA.
Impact of Contraceptive Pills on Arthritis Risk
Among women who took contraceptive pills, the indicators of rheumatoid arthritis were lower compared to those who had never used these medications.
Our research shows that the use of contraceptive pills protects against rheumatoid arthritis. We saw that among women who took contraceptive pills, the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis was 19% lower than among those who had never taken this type of drug.
Fatemeh Hadizadeh of the Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, the lead author of the study
According to the researchers, even after women stopped taking contraceptive pills, they had an 11% lower risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. This significant finding suggests a potential protective effect of contraceptive pills against the onset of RA, providing valuable insights into preventive measures for women’s health.
Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Arthritis Risk
Women who underwent hormone therapy during menopause faced a 16% higher risk of developing RA compared to those who never received such treatment.
Scientists believe that the striking difference between oral contraceptives and menopausal hormone therapy can be explained by the fact that these medications consist of different types of hormones and are taken in varying dosages. The woman’s age can also influence the disease risk. Physiological changes after menopause, when the balance of natural female hormones alters, may also impact the effects of hormonal medications.
According to researchers, these findings could contribute to the development of more informed recommendations for women at higher risk of developing RA. The new knowledge might also play a crucial role in the development of novel medications.
For a comprehensive guide on this new phase of life during and after menopause, consult our Complete Guide.
