Noncontraceptive Benefits of the Estradiol Valerate/Dienogest Combined Oral Contraceptive: A Review of the Literature
August 2014
in “
International Journal of Women's Health
”
TLDR The estradiol valerate/dienogest oral contraceptive helps with heavy periods, may improve acne and symptoms in PCOS, and doesn't affect sexual function.
The document reviews the noncontraceptive benefits of the estradiol valerate/dienogest (E₂V/DNG) combined oral contraceptive, emphasizing its effectiveness in treating heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), with a significant reduction in menstrual blood loss (MBL) and improvements in quality of life. E₂V/DNG is also noted to reduce hormone withdrawal-associated symptoms and may have positive effects on acne and hyperandrogenism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the document calls for larger randomized controlled trials to confirm these benefits. Overall, E₂V/DNG is presented as a beneficial alternative for women who experience hormone withdrawal symptoms with traditional combined oral contraceptives (COCs) and does not negatively impact sexual function.
