Noncontraceptive benefits of two combined oral contraceptives with antiandrogenic properties among adolescents.
BACKGROUND
The aim of this study was to assess the noncontraceptive benefits of two combined oral contraceptives, containing progestins with well-known antiandrogenic properties, in adolescent girls.


METHODS
In this prospective observational study, the effects of two formulations containing 30 mcg of ethinyl estradiol combined with 2 mg chlormadinone acetate or 3 mg drospirenone were compared. Six-month data were obtained from 156 sexually active adolescents requiring contraception. We investigated the advantages of these regimens on intermenstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhea, acne and hair and skin disorders. Furthermore, their effects on sexual interest, intercourse frequency and sexual satisfaction were evaluated.


CONCLUSIONS
Both preparations provided effective contraception, good cycle control and beneficial effects on preexisting hair and skin disorders without effects on body weight. However, the best results were obtained with the formulation containing chlormadinone acetate, with the difference being statistically significant. Furthermore, the contraceptive adherence to teenager expectations and the counseling effectiveness enhancing compliance contribute to a high rate of continuation.
Sabatini
Rosa
R
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, General Hospital Policlinico, University of Bari, Bari 70121, Italy. sabatinirosa@tiscali.it
Orsini
Giuseppe
G
Cagiano
Raffaele
R
Loverro
Giuseppe
G
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000293:Adolescent; D000726:Androgen Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000736:Androstenes / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002715:Chlormadinone Acetate / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004412:Dysmenorrhea / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006197:Hair / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008597:Menstrual Cycle / Q000187:drug effects; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000187:drug effects; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects
D000726:Androgen Antagonists; D000736:Androstenes; D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal; D002715:Chlormadinone Acetate; C035144:drospirenone