Women's Health Research Newsletter
December 2007

The Case for Continuous Contraception

The FDA recently approved a new contraceptive pill, called Lybrel. Lybrel is a contraceptive for women who prefer not to have a period, or to only menstruate a few times a year. The Women's Health Research Unit is currently conducting a study using this medication.

What is the study?

One of the side effects of Lybrel that surfaced during it's development was breakthrough bleeding. We are using a low dose of a study drug to curtail this bleeding in order for women to benefit from skipping their period, but also address a possible side effect of the contraceptive.

Is it safe to skip my period?

It is safe. In fact, it's important to note that when women are taking contraceptive pills, they are not actually having a "real" period. They are experiencing withdrawal bleeding as a reaction to the lack of hormones from the pills. Lybrel can help women by freeing them up of this monthly bleeding.

Is it effective?

Yes. Lybrel has proven to be 99% effective in the prevention of pregnancy. No contraceptive is 100%, but when taken with regularity each day, it is highly effective.

How does the study work?

Eligible women will be provided four months of Lybrel at no cost. Should they experience bleeding, they will contact study staff and a dose of either a study drug or placebo will be prescribed. We want to stress that even in the case of taking the study drug, the dose is low, and will not impact the effectiveness of the pill. At the end of the study, our nurse practitioners can help you determine whether to continue with Lybrel or switch to an alternative method of contraception.

How do I get started?

It’s easy! Just call our confidential recruitment line at 503 494-3666.

The OHSU Women's Health Research Unit: Finding New Solutions to Old Problems.

Heidi Printz, Ph.D.
Division Manager, Women's Health Research Unit
Oregon Health & Science University