Haemorheological changes associated with the menstrual cycle and oral contraceptive therapy

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Galea, G.^a | Davidson, R.J.L.^b

Affiliations: [a] Aberdeen and NE Scotland Blood Transfusion Service, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB9 2ZW I, Scotland | [b] Haematology Unit, Pathology Dept, Aberdeen University Medical School, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB9 2ZW I, Scotland

Note: [] Accepted by: Editor M. Kaibara

Abstract: In this study of three normal females and 30 receiving oral contraception (oc) no association was established between plasma viscosity (PV), whole blood viscosity (WBV), corrected for a 45% packed cell volume (PCV), red cell filterability and levels of plasma oestrogen and progesterone levels. In oc users a transient rise in both plasma and whole blood viscosity was recorded after one month with reversal by three months and stabilisation thereafter.

Keywords: plasma viscosity, whole blood viscosity, red cell filterability, menstrual cycle, oral contraceptives

DOI: 10.3233/CH-1990-10103

Journal: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 21-33, 1990