Extended and continuous combined contraceptive regimens for menstrual suppression

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception
• Gynecology

Background:

• Many women seek to reduce or eliminate monthly bleeding for medical reasons or personal preference.
• Traditional combined contraceptive regimens involve a 28-day cycle with a hormone-free interval, often associated with worsened symptoms.
• Extended and continuous use regimens offer an alternative to cyclic administration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review indications and physiology of menstrual suppression.
• To summarize research on the effectiveness, safety, and side effects of extended/continuous regimens compared to cyclic use.
• To review attitudes towards menstrual suppression and present counseling topics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on menstrual suppression using combined oral, vaginal, and transdermal contraceptives.
• Synthesis of research comparing extended/continuous use with traditional cyclic regimens.
• Review of studies on patient and provider attitudes towards menstrual suppression.

Main Results:

• Effectiveness, safety, and side effect profiles of extended and continuous regimens are comparable to cyclic regimens.
• Hormone-related symptoms are often more pronounced during the hormone-free interval of cyclic regimens.
• Research indicates comparable outcomes across oral, vaginal, and transdermal extended/continuous methods.

Conclusions:

• Extended and continuous combined contraceptive regimens are effective for menstrual suppression.
• These regimens offer a viable alternative to cyclic use with comparable safety and tolerability.
• Evidence-based counseling should address the benefits and considerations of extended/continuous use for women.