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Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Fertility Preservation Through Oocyte Vitrification: Clinical and Laboratory Perspectives
Published on: September 16, 2021
[Long-cycle treatment in oral contraception]
Herbert Kuhl1, Martin Birkhäuser, Alfred Mueck
1Universitätsklinik für Gynäkologie und Frauenheilkunde, J. W. Goehte-Universität, Frankfurt. H.Kuhl@em.uni-frankfurt.de
Many women prefer fewer periods or amenorrhea for improved quality of life and hygiene. Long-cycle oral contraceptives (OCs) offer increased safety and reduced hormonal fluctuations, benefiting various gynecological conditions.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Reproductive Health
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Surveys indicate a widespread desire among women for altered menstrual patterns, including reduced frequency or amenorrhea.
- This preference is consistent across women with natural cycles and those using oral contraceptives (OCs).
- Key motivations include reduced bleeding, enhanced hygiene, improved quality of life, and decreased blood loss.
Purpose:
- To inform women about the benefits of long-cycle oral contraceptive (OC) use.
- To address the misconception that suppressing menstruation is "unnatural."
- To highlight the increased contraceptive safety and reduced hormonal fluctuations associated with long-cycle regimens.
Summary:
- Long-cycle OC use increases contraceptive efficacy and minimizes hormonal fluctuations during the pill-free interval, thereby reducing associated somatic and mental symptoms.
- This regimen is particularly beneficial for women experiencing conditions such as endometriosis, hypermenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, and polycystic ovary syndrome.
- It also addresses estrogen-deficiency symptoms like migraine and premenstrual syndrome, offering a therapeutic advantage.
Impact:
- Empowers women with knowledge regarding OC options that align with their preferences for menstrual regulation.
- Provides a scientific basis for adopting long-cycle OC use, potentially improving patient adherence and outcomes.
- Offers a strategy to manage gynecological symptoms and enhance overall well-being through optimized hormonal therapy.
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