Comparative Analysis of Dienogest and Oral Contraceptives in Treating Endometriosis

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at Tongde Hospital Zhejiang Province have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the short-term effects of dienogest and oral contraceptives (OCPs) on pain and quality of life in women with endometriosis. The study, published in BMC Women's Health, analyzed eight studies that included a total of 563 participants. The findings showed that dienogest was superior to OCPs in improving pain and quality of life in patients with endometriosis, but not as effective as OCPs in pelvic pain and dyspareunia.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dienogest was superior to OCPs in improving VAS scores, with a significant difference in pain reduction (P = 0.04, SMD=-1.19, 95%CI=-2.32 to -0.06).
  • Dienogest was not as effective as OCPs in improving pelvic pain and dyspareunia associated with endometriosis (P = 0.009, SMD = 0.42, 95%CI = 0.11 to 0.73).
  • A subgroup analysis revealed that dienogest was superior to mifepristone and Yasmin in improving VAS scores (P = 0.03, SMD=-1.66, 95%CI=-3.16 to -0.15).
  • The study found that dienogest significantly improved EHP-5, EHP-30, and SF-12 average PCS scores compared to OCPs (P 0.05).
  • The risk of side effects, such as vaginal bleeding, headache, hot flashes, back pain, skin dryness, and nausea, was similar between dienogest and OCPs (P 0.05).
  • However, the study found that OCPs increased the risk of hand numbness and weight gain.

Statistics:

  • A total of 563 participants were included in the analysis.
  • Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis.
  • The studies were conducted between the establishment of the database and November 2024.
  • The results showed that dienogest was superior to OCPs in improving pain and quality of life in patients with endometriosis.

Sources:

  • Comparison of the short-term effects of dienogest and oral contraceptives on pain and quality of life in women with endometriosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Women's Health, 2025;25(1):480.
  • OBGYN & Reproduction Week. October 20, 2025; p 334.