Influence of gender and combined estrogen–progestin oral contraceptive on parotid saliva flow rate, pH, and electrolytes concentration

Abstract

Objectives: Endocrinal variations within an individual impact the electrolyte composition, pH, and flow-rate (FR) of saliva. The aim of this study was to evaluate the gender-specific differences and the effect of combined estrogen-progestin oral contraceptives (COCs) on FR, pH, and electrolyte concentrations in the parotid saliva (PS) of a group of healthy adults. Material and Methods: Stimulated PS was collected from 20 healthy adults using a Lashley cup; 11 males, 8 females, and 1 female undertaking combined contraceptive therapy (levonorgestrel/ethinyloestradiol 0.1 mg + 0.02 mg). FR and pH were recorded for each saliva sample. Electrolytes concentrations (Na+, Ca2+, K+, Mg2+) were measured using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). Statistical analysis was performed, and the significance level was set at p