The oestrogen in the combined oral contraceptive pill:
- increases the oestrogen levels in the blood and this directly reduces hirsutism.
- increases the SHBG levels and this reduces the amount of free androgen; the free androgen is largely responsible for hirsutism.
- suppresses gonadotrophin (FSH and LH) from the pituitary. Reducing LH production results in lower levels of ovarian androgen production.
Hormone replacement therapy involves administration of oestrogen and there is some evidence that it may have a part to play in the management of hirsutism when the pill is not acceptable.
Related Medical Abstracts - Click on the paper title:-
- Metformin versus oral contraceptive pill in polycystic ovary syndrome: a Cochrane review. (2007-01)
- Treatment of hirsutism with ethinyl estradiol-desogestrel contraceptive pills has beneficial effects on the lipid profile and improves insulin sensitivity. (2007-02)
- Does obesity diminish the positive effect of oral contraceptive treatment on hyperandrogenism in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome? (2001)
See Also:
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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.
I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.
