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  • Title: Noncontraceptive uses of the pill.
    Author: Halbert DR.
    Journal: Clin Obstet Gynecol; 1981 Sep; 24(3):987-93. PubMed ID: 6456856.
    Abstract:
    Oral contraceptives (OCs) have noncontraceptive uses as well. As with prescription of OCs for contraception, the risks must be measured against the potential therapeutic use. Most of the beneficial effects of the pill result from the action of combination agents on the endometrium. Secretory exhaustion which thins the endometrium so that less tissue is sloughed cyclically is manifested as shorter and lighter periods. This manifestation is particularly useful in cases of excessive flow or anemia. Temporary OC use is recommended to alleviate some dysmenorrhea or dysfunctional bleeding problems. The risk of surgery to alleviate menstrual disorders must be weighed against the admitted increased risks for women over 35-40. Perhaps, therapeutic use of OCs to control these problems is worth the risks in certain cases. Women's life styles have changed to the point where they would rather take OCs noncontraceptively than suffer menorrhagia periodically. There is a detailed discussion of the therapeutic use of OCs for control of primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. OCs function in lessening dysmenorrhea by controlling the excess production and retention of PGs (prostaglandins) in the endometrial cavity. OCs offer temporary relief for acne also.
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