Background: Hormonal contraception is commonly used worldwide, but its systemic effects
across lipoprotein subclasses, fatty acids, circulating metabolites and cytokines remain
poorly understood. Methods: A comprehensive molecular profile (75 metabolic measures
and 37 cytokines) was measured for up to 5841 women (age range 24–49 years) from three
population-based cohorts. Women using combined oral contraceptive pills (COCPs) or
progestin-only contraceptives (POCs) were compared with those who did not use hormonal …

Background Pregnancy triggers well-known alterations in maternal glucose and lipid
balance but its overall effects on systemic metabolism remain incompletely understood.
Methods Detailed molecular profiles (87 metabolic measures and 37 cytokines) were
measured for up to 4260 women (24–49 years, 322 pregnant) from three population-based
cohorts in Finland. Circulating molecular concentrations in pregnant women were compared
to those in non-pregnant women. Metabolic profiles were also reassessed for 583 women 6 …