Endometriosis - Medications

Medications

The basic approach in hormonal treatments for endometriosis is to block production of female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) or to prevent ovulation. Hormonal drugs are used for pain relief only. None have been proven to improve fertility rates and in some cases may delay conception. Specific hormonal drugs may have different effects for women with endometriosis.

• Inducing Pseudopregnancy: Oral contraceptives that contain estrogen and progestins mimic a pregnant state and block ovulation. (Progestins are natural or synthetic forms of progesterone). Progestins may also be used alone, since they have specific effects that can cause the endometrial tissue itself to atrophy.
• Inducing Pseudomenopause: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists or gestrinone, an anti-progesterone that mimic menopause. They reduce estrogen and progesterone to their lowest level.
• Inducing On-going Blockage of Ovulation. Danazol, a derivative of male hormones, is a powerful ovulation blocker.

Studies report that around 80% of women achieve pain relief after taking these drugs. To date, comparison studies have found few differences in effectiveness among the major hormonal treatments. Differences occur mostly in their side effects. Women should discuss the effects of particular medications with their doctors to determine the best choice.

Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives (OCs), commonly known collectively as "the Pill," contain combinations of an estrogen and a progestin (either a natural progesterone or the synthetic form called progestin). They are most often used for treating endometriosis and are as effective for most women in treating pain from endometriosis as the more potent gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists. OCs may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 30 - 50% and of endometrial cancer by 50%, a potentially important benefit in women with endometriosis. Patch contraceptives are available, but they may increase the risk for menstrual cramping.

Click the icon to see an illustrated series detailing the birth control pill.