Hormonal treatment of dysmenorrhoea

All formulations of combined hormonal contraception (combined oral contraception [COC]] and contraceptive vaginal ring) have been shown to be effective for dysmenorrhoea. Extended or continuous use can minimise withdrawal bleeding and pain. For information about choice of combined hormonal contraception, as well as doses and formulations, see here.

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) (the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine contraceptive device] [LNG-IUD] and the etonogestrel implant) and depot medroxyprogesterone also reduce dysmenorrhoea. These methods also offer effective contraception and are particularly useful for those who have difficulty complying with more user-dependent methods.