Vol. 2, Issue 8, Part L (2016)

Introduction and Background: The regularity of menstrual cycles, bleeding patterns, and quality of life (QoL) can be greatly affected by the use of contraceptive techniques, despite their critical role in reproductive health and family planning. Hormonal therapies, such as injectables, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), affect the regulation of menstrual flow and cycles. A better understanding of how various methods of birth control affect women's menstrual cycle regulation and quality of life would hopefully lead to more informed decisions about which technique to use.

Material and Methods: In a comparative cross-sectional study, 50 women between the ages of 18 and 45 who had been using contraceptives for at least six months participated. This study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Narayana Medical College and Hospital, Nellore, India from July 2015 to June 2016. The subjects were divided into three groups: 20 people who took oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), 15 people who used injectable contraceptives, and 15 people who used non-hormonal methods such condoms and copper IUDs. A structured questionnaire that included information on menstrual cycle parameters (Frequency, length, and severity of bleeding) and a WHOQOL-BREF scale for evaluating quality of life was used to gather data. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square and ANOVA tests (SPSS v25).

Results: Injectable contraception users had the second-highest rate of cycle regularity at 60%, followed by oral contraceptive users at 80%. Users who did not employ hormonal techniques had the highest prevalence of irregular cycles at 40%. In contrast to 30% of injectable users and 50% of Copper IUD users, only 10% of OCP users had heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). A significant impact on cycle predictability was the fact that 40% of injectable users reported amenorrhea. People who used OCP reported the best quality of life (QoL) scores, with 85% saying they were able to better regulate their periods and experienced less disruptions. Weight increase (25%), mood fluctuations 30%, and average QoL scores were reported by injectable users. The quality of life was negatively impacted by the fact that heavy bleeding and cramping were experienced by 45% of non-hormonal method users.

Conclusion: The regulation of menstrual cycles and quality of life are profoundly affected by various methods of contraception. Intermittent bleeding is a side effect of injectable contraceptives, whereas oral contraceptives improve cycle management and quality of life. Heavy bleeding and other menstrual discomfort symptoms are more common in women who use non-hormonal treatments. The significance of tailored counseling for women's reproductive health and lifestyle choices in selecting an appropriate form of birth control is highlighted by these results.