Do Oral Contraceptives Protect Against ACL Injuries in Female Athletes

Last updated: April 29, 2025
Sponsor: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Overall Status: Completed

Phase

4

Condition

N/A

Treatment

Oral Contraceptive Pill, norethindrn a-e estradiol-iron

Clinical Study ID

NCT04899778
Pro00000922
  • Ages > 18
  • Female
  • Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Study Summary

The purpose of this research study is to examine the impact of one type of commonly used birth control pill on blood levels of relaxin and measure changes in knee movement to determine whether there are changes in joint instability (indicating the knee is less stable) that may predispose female athletes to injury. Women not on hormonal birth control will also be enrolled to analyze differences between athletes on and not on birth control and to evaluate typical relaxin levels and knee laxity when birth control pills are not used.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Female

  • 18 years of age or older

  • Currently playing basketball, soccer, or volleyball at Loyola Marymount orPepperdine

  • If not currently on COC, regular menstrual cycle occurring every 21-35 days

Exclusion

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Previous ACL injury

  • Underlying neuromuscular disease

  • Medical contraindication to COC use

  • History of pregnancy

  • Desire to conceive in the next year

Study Design

Total Participants: 73
Treatment Group(s): 1
Primary Treatment: Oral Contraceptive Pill, norethindrn a-e estradiol-iron
Phase: 4
Study Start date:
September 29, 2021
Estimated Completion Date:
June 30, 2024

Connect with a study center

  • Cedars Sinai Medical Center

    Los Angeles, California 90048
    United States

    Site Not Available

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