Ovulation inhibition with a combined oral contraceptive containing 1 mg micronized 17 beta-estradiol.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate ovarian function by ultrasonography and endocrine measurements.


METHODS
Prospective, open study.


METHODS
Outpatient clinic of the First Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Vienna, Austria.


METHODS
Twenty healthy women with regular cycles and established ovulation by ultrasonography.


METHODS
Treatment with a combination of 1 mg micronized E2 with 150 micrograms desogestrel daily for 21 days, followed by 7 pill-free days.


METHODS
Transvaginal ultrasonography and estimation of E2 and P at least twice a week for two consecutive cycles, followed by one after treatment cycle.


RESULTS
Ovulation inhibition was apparent in all cases and no functional ovarian cysts were observed during treatment. On a few occasions a persistent follicle was noted, but in the majority of cases there was total absence of follicular activity. The bleeding pattern showed a tendency toward prolonged and more heavy bleeding when compared with the before treatment situation. Return of ovulation was prompt in all women but one.


CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasonographic observations, accompanied by P and E2 measurements, allow us to conclude that the combination of 1 mg E2 with 150 micrograms desogestrel provides complete ovulation inhibition. However, the bleeding pattern does not show an acceptable profile.
Wenzl
R
R
First Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Vienna, Austria.
Bennink
H C
HC
van Beek
A
A
Spona
J
J
Huber
J
J
D000328:Adult; D003276:Contraceptives, Oral / Q000494:pharmacology*; D004338:Drug Combinations; D004958:Estradiol / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood / Q000494:pharmacology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008598:Menstruation / Q000187:drug effects; D006080:Ovarian Follicle / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000187:drug effects; D010060:Ovulation / Q000187:drug effects*; D011374:Progesterone / Q000097:blood; D014463:Ultrasonography
D003276:Contraceptives, Oral; D004338:Drug Combinations; D011374:Progesterone; D004958:Estradiol