Study Links Contraceptive Injections to Increased Brain Tumor Risk

A comprehensive study finds a significant link between progestogens in contraceptive injections and a higher risk of meningiomas, though experts advise weighing benefits against risks.

A BMJ study links contraceptive injections containing progestogens, specifically medroxyprogesterone acetate, to a fivefold increase in brain tumor (meningioma) risk in women.
The study utilized data from the French national health system, covering over 108,000 women, including 18,061 who underwent surgery for meningioma between 2009 and 2018.
Experts emphasize that while the findings suggest a significant increase in risk, meningioma remains a rare disease, and the benefits of using contraceptive injections should be weighed against the risks.
Other forms of contraception, including the pill and implant, as well as certain progestogens, have not been linked to an increased risk of brain tumors.
Regulatory agencies and manufacturers are urged to update product labels and patient information leaflets to reflect the potential risk associated with long-term use of progestogens.