
FSRH CEU Response to published study: Maternal use of hormonal contraception and risk of childhood leukemia: a nationwide, populate-based cohort study (September 2018)
File size 320KB | Date: 01 September 2018
Date: 20 Sep 2018
Type: FSRH Clinical Guidance and Clinical Statements
A Danish database study suggests that children born to women who have used hormonal contraception (HC) in the three months prior to conception or in early pregnancy are at increased risk of developing childhood non-lymphoid leukaemia compared with children whose mothers have never used HC.
The study finds no significant association between maternal use of HC and childhood lymphoid leukaemia; it does suggest a potential association between maternal use of HC (and combined oral contraception specifically) shortly before or during pregnancy and risk of childhood non-lymphoid leukaemia. However the study has limitations and does not confirm a causative association. Further robust studies would be required to clarify any association. Even if there is a true causative effect the number of potential additional cases suggested by this study would be very small.
The FSRH CEU does not recommend any change in practice on the basis of this study’s findings. Women are encouraged to plan pregnancy and follow preconception advice.
Download this statement in full below.