Inhibition of ovulation by low-dose monophasic contraceptive containing gestodene

Ovulation inhibition by the monophasic oral contraceptive containing 75 ug of gestodene and 30 ug of ethinyl estradiol was evaluated in 25 healthy volunteers for five cycles: a pretreatment cycle, three treatment cycles, and a posttreatment cycle. Serum luteinizing and follicle- stimulating hormones, estradiol, and progesterone levels were measured on days 8 through 17; progesterone was measured once, around day 21. Pelvic ultrasound examinations were performed on cycle days 8 to 17, luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormone levels reached values on the lower limit of detection. Luteal activity was not detected in treated cycles. Follicular activity, which was reflected by estradiol levels, was mot strongly depressed during the first treated cycle. Pelvic ultrasound examinations confirmed excellent inhibition of follicular maturation. Restoration of ovarian function in the posttreatment cycle was excellent and showed a midcycle hormonal profile identical to the pretrial cycle.