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The clinical rationale for menses-free contraception
1Reproductive Research Unit, Center for Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. klin@obgyn.upenn.edu
Journal of Women'S Health (2002)
|October 17, 2007
Summary
Continuous oral contraceptive (OC) use offers a viable option for menstrual suppression, improving quality of life for women with disorders or busy lifestyles. Eliminating the monthly withdrawal bleed is physiologically unnecessary and provides greater convenience.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Reproductive Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Menstruation impacts women differently, from minor inconvenience to significant health concerns.
- Menstrual disorders and aggravated health conditions during the cycle affect many women.
- Cyclic oral contraceptives (OCs) are used for managing menstrual disorders and accommodating life events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the viability and benefits of continuous or extended-cycle OC regimens.
- To explore OC use for menstrual suppression as an alternative to traditional cyclic regimens.
- To assess the potential for improved quality of life and convenience through menstrual suppression.
Main Methods:
- Review of current practices regarding oral contraceptive (OC) use.
- Analysis of the physiological necessity of monthly hormone withdrawal bleeds.
- Assessment of continuous and extended-cycle OC regimens for menstrual suppression.
Main Results:
- Continuous OC regimens are safe and effective for managing menstrual disorders.
- There is no physiological need for a monthly withdrawal bleed or menstrual period.
- Extended-cycle OC use eliminates the menstrual cycle, offering a viable option for many women.
Conclusions:
- Continuous and extended-cycle OC regimens represent an attractive option for menstrual suppression.
- Eliminating the menstrual cycle improves quality of life for women with menstrual disorders.
- OC-based menstrual suppression offers greater convenience for women with active lifestyles.
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