What over-the-counter (OTC) hormonal birth control options are available to stop menstrual periods?

OTC Hormonal Birth Control Options to Stop Menstrual Periods

Currently, there are no over-the-counter (OTC) hormonal birth control options available in the United States that can reliably stop menstrual periods. All hormonal contraceptives that can effectively suppress menstruation require a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Available Hormonal Contraceptive Options (Prescription Only)

Continuous or Extended-Cycle Combined Hormonal Contraceptives

• Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) have a typical use efficacy of 91-95% and can be used in extended or continuous regimens to reduce or eliminate menstrual bleeding 1
• Extended-cycle pills like Seasonique are designed for three months of active hormones followed by a short hormone-free interval, but can cause breakthrough bleeding when used continuously without following the recommended regimen 2
• Continuous use of COCs without taking the placebo pills can reduce the number of menstrual periods, though this approach requires prescription and proper medical supervision

Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs)

• Levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) has >99% efficacy (typical failure rate 0.1-0.2%) and often reduces or eliminates menstrual bleeding over time 1
• Contraceptive implant has >99% efficacy (typical failure rate 0.05%) and may reduce menstrual bleeding in some users 1
• Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) injections have 94-97% efficacy and commonly lead to amenorrhea with continued use 1

Important Considerations

Risks of Unmonitored Hormonal Contraceptive Use

• Long-term continuous use of hormonal contraceptives without proper medical supervision can lead to complications such as:
  • Heavy breakthrough bleeding 2
  • Endometrial changes 2
  • Hormonal imbalances 2

Benefits of Prescription Hormonal Methods

• Tailored to individual needs and medical history 3
• Regular monitoring for side effects and complications
• Proper dosing and regimen instructions
• Access to newer formulations with improved side effect profiles 3

Common Pitfalls and Caveats

• Self-medication attempts: Attempting to use hormonal products not designed for contraception to control menstruation can be dangerous
• Irregular bleeding: When using hormonal methods to stop periods, breakthrough bleeding is common, especially in the first few months
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions may contraindicate the use of specific hormonal contraceptives, requiring proper screening by a healthcare provider
• Individual response: Not all people respond the same way to hormonal contraceptives; what works to stop menstruation in one person may not work in another

Alternative Approaches

While not OTC hormonal options, these approaches may help manage menstruation:

• Consult with a healthcare provider about prescription options specifically designed to reduce or eliminate menstrual bleeding
• Consider non-hormonal prescription options like tranexamic acid for heavy menstrual bleeding
• Discuss the possibility of using progestin-only methods, which may cause amenorrhea in some users 4

Remember that any approach to stopping menstrual periods should be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and efficacy based on individual health needs.