“SPARK support would allow me to address an important gap in reproductive health research. A better understanding of how hormonal contraceptives modulate the immune system is crucial for advancing women’s health.”
How does hormonal birth control shape the immune system?
In the U.S., around 30 percent of women aged 19 to 29 rely on hormonal contraceptives (HCs), yet the impact of these widely used medications on the immune system remains largely unexplored. The natural ovulation cycle, which occurs approximately every 28 days, is governed by a delicate interplay of hormones that exert profound effects on various physiological systems. Hormonal contraceptives work by mimicking the actions of estrogen and progesterone—hormones that peak post-ovulation—effectively tricking the body into believing that ovulation has already taken place. Understanding how HCs influence immune function is crucial for empowering women with knowledge about their contraceptive choices and ensuring that these decisions support their overall health.
Sex hormones not only regulate ovulation but also exert significant effects on various physiological processes—which is why millions of HC users report side effects such as headaches, weight gain, and mood changes. Research indicates that HC users also face a higher risk of developing autoimmune diseases, where the body mistakenly attacks itself, as well as certain cancers. However, it may offer a protective effect for asthma patients. Many immune cells express sex hormone receptors that modulate immune activity, which is how HCs can influence the immune system. Our immune responses need to be strong enough to fend off infections and prevent cancer, but not so intense that they damage our own tissues. Thus, a balanced immune response, intricately linked to hormonal balance, is crucial for health.
My project aims to characterize the changes in immune cell abundance and function resulting from HC use. By analyzing blood samples from three distinct study groups using single-cell profiling, I will identify immune cell types, measure their abundance, and assess their functional status. This innovative approach will illuminate the immune changes induced by different types of HCs, providing critical insights into how these widely used medications impact women’s health.