25 citations
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December 2017 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Birth control pills combined with bicalutamide are more effective at reducing excessive hair growth in women with PCOS than birth control pills alone.
16 citations
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August 2014 in “International Journal of Women's Health” The estradiol valerate/dienogest oral contraceptive helps with heavy periods, may improve acne and symptoms in PCOS, and doesn't affect sexual function.
3 citations
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January 2018 in “Reproduction, Fertility and Development” Birth control pills increase certain receptor activities in female gerbil prostate glands and can lead to prostate changes.
November 2025 in “Contraception” COC use doesn't increase hair stress hormone levels, but hair treatments may affect results.
74 citations
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April 2002 in “PubMed” Both oral contraceptives reduced acne effectively and had similar positive effects on skin oiliness and hair growth.