Use of a progestogen only preparation containing desogestrel in the treatment of recurrent pelvic pain after conservative surgery for endometriosis

Abstract 

Objective

To assess the effect of a new progestin progestogen only pill (desogestrel) versus an oral contraceptive in the treatment of recurrent endometriosis.

Study design

A randomized prospective clinical study. A group of women with endometriosis (n=40) who showed recurrent dysmenorrhea and/or pelvic pain after conservative surgery, and did not desire a pregnancy. Continuous treatment for 6 months with desogestrel (75μg/d) (n=20) versus a combined oral contraceptive (ethinyl estradiol 20μg plus desogestrel 150μg) (n=20) was performed.

Results

A significant improvement of both pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea was observed following each type of treatment (P<0.001). The use of desogestrel progestogen only pill was associated with a breakthrough bleeding in 20% patients, while a significant body weight increase was observed in 15% after oral contraceptive.

Conclusions

Both desogestrel and an oral estro-progestinic were effective, safe and low cost therapy of pain symptoms after endoscopic surgery for endometriosis, the former showing an impact on breakthrough bleeding, the later an incidence on body weight increase.

Keywords: Endometriosis, Progestin, Estro-progestinic, Pelvic pain, VAS score