Study Compares Benefits of Different Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills

Introduction to Combined Oral Contraceptives

The introduction of combined oral contraceptive pills in the 1960s revolutionized family planning options for couples, granting women increased flexibility in their life choices. These oral contraceptives deliver daily hormone doses to the body, with some formulations allowing for a medication-free week that mimics menstruation. Monthly-cycle combined oral contraceptives induce bleeding every month, while extended-cycle variants reduce this occurrence to four times a year or less. Research indicates that many women in the United States and Europe prefer to experience fewer bleeding episodes annually.

Recent Study Overview

A recent study published in BMC Women’s Health analyzed data from the 2013 National Health and Wellness Survey to evaluate the benefits of two forms of combined oral contraceptive pills. This survey, conducted across multiple countries, specifically focused on participants from the United States.

Study Participants and Methodology

The study compared premenopausal women aged 18 to 50 who were using either extended-cycle or monthly-cycle combined oral contraceptive pills. A total of 3,876 women were surveyed, with 260 using extended-cycle pills and 3,616 opting for monthly-cycle pills. The analysis examined menstrual-cycle-related symptoms such as menstrual pain and heavy bleeding, along with medication satisfaction and adherence.

Key Findings

Results indicated that women utilizing extended-cycle combined oral contraceptive pills reported higher satisfaction and better adherence to their medication regimen. Additionally, these participants experienced fewer instances of heavy bleeding. However, incidents of bloating, irritability, and fatigue were reported more frequently among those on extended-cycle pills.

Considerations for Future Research

The analysis did not take into account the varying types of hormones present in different brands of these contraceptives, which may significantly influence the results. This aspect is crucial for understanding the overall effects of the drug class.

Conclusion

The study supports the use of extended-cycle combined oral contraceptive pills for women of reproductive age, highlighting their ability to provide fewer bleeding episodes and greater convenience, making them a preferred option for many women.

Reference

Nappi R.E et al. Real-world experience of women using extended-cycle vs monthly-cycle combined oral contraception in the United States: the National Health and Wellness Survey. BMC Women’s Health (2018) 18:22 DOI 10.1186/s12905-017-0508-6

Author

Written by Anuolu Bank-Oni, Pharm.D, CDE, BCGP