Hormonal contraception, including birth control pills and intrauterine devices, is not associated with a higher prevalence of idiopathic intracranial hypertension, according to a meta-analysis published on March 25 in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a condition marked by increased pressure in the fluid surrounding the brain without an obvious cause. It can lead to chronic headaches, vision problems, and in rare cases, permanent vision loss. Obesity is considered a risk factor for this disorder. The condition mainly affects female individuals, most often during their reproductive years.
The meta-analysis reviewed data from 13 studies that included 5,351 female participants diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and 669,260 female participants without the condition. The average age among participants was 33 years old. The studies examined various forms of hormonal contraception such as birth control pills, IUDs, contraceptive vaginal rings, injections like medroxyprogesterone, implants placed under the skin, and contraceptive patches.
Researchers reported no association between any form of hormonal contraception studied and the prevalence of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. "Our findings can provide reassurance that using hormonal contraception may not be linked to this condition," said Sundaram. "However, it is important to note that the evidence is limited and large, well-designed studies are needed, particularly in diverse patient groups, to confirm these results."
A limitation noted by researchers was that only a small number of studies met criteria for inclusion in their analysis. Some included studies also had smaller participant numbers which could make it harder to detect subtle differences.
