Randomised trial, 2015
Which birth control pill better reduces PMS and menstrual symptoms: nomegestrol acetate or drospirenone?
Nomegestrol acetate reduced more PMS and menstrual symptoms than drospirenone pills in this large study of 3522 women, though drospirenone was better for emotional arousal.
What they did
Large randomized controlled trial with 3522 women using one of two birth control pills. Women filled out symptom questionnaires at the start and after completing 1, 3, 6, and 13 menstrual cycles. Researchers measured eight symptom categories.
What they found
Nomegestrol acetate users experienced significantly greater improvements in pain, water retention, negative affect, concentration problems, and behavior changes during the menstrual phase compared to drospirenone users. However, drospirenone was better for emotional arousal. Both pills improved cramps in women who had moderate to severe cramps at baseline (1779 women).
What it means for you
If you use birth control and have PMS, nomegestrol acetate may offer more symptom relief for mood and physical symptoms. However, discuss options with your doctor as other factors matter. This was a large study with long follow-up, making it fairly reliable.
3522
women in study
13
menstrual cycles measured
1779
women with moderate to severe cramps
About the study
- Original title
- Comparative analysis of the effects of nomegestrol acetate/17 β-estradiol and drospirenone/ethinylestradiol on premenstrual and menstrual symptoms and dysmenorrhea
- Authors
- Witjes H, Creinin MD, Sundström-Poromaa I et al.
- Journal
- The European journal of contraception & reproductive health care : the official journal of the European Society of Contraception
- Year
- 2015
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 3,522
- What was tested
- Nomegestrol acetate/17β-estradiol or drospirenone/ethinylestradiol birth control pills
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.3109/13625187.2015.1016154
Topics
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