Continuous Oral Contraceptives (COCs): Are Bleeding Patterns Dependent on the Hormones Given?
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2004-08-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
While there may be a decrease in the total number of bleeding days women experience with
continuous-dosed COCs (no menstrual withdrawal week), these regimens frequently result in an
increased number of "breakthrough" or non-scheduled bleeding days. Breakthrough bleeding is
among the main reasons cited for discontinuation of combined COCs dosed traditionally (3
weeks of active pill, 1 week of placebo) or continuously, and may offset the perceived
benefit of fewer withdrawal bleeding events for many women taking continuous-dosed COCs. The
exact mechanisms responsible for breakthrough bleeding patterns during hormonal contraception
are unknown and may be related to the pill formulation. This study is to determine whether
progestin type or estrogen dose influences bleeding patterns, side effects, or satisfaction
with combined oral contraceptives (COC) dosed continuously.