Effects of oral contraceptives on serum lipid profiles of women runners.

The purpose of this study was to examine the combined effects of oral contraceptive (OC) use and strenuous exercise on the lipid profiles of a group of 11 women runners. The five runners who used OCs had lipid profiles within normal ranges. When compared with a group of six runners who were not using OCs, matched for body fat and cholesterol intake, no significant differences in lipid profiles were seen. Women who choose to use OCs may offset previously documented alterations in lipid levels through a regular physical exercise program.