What to choose between the contraceptive patch and the hormonal IUD to relieve endometriosis?

Question

I would like to know which of these hormonal methods usually works best for curbing endometriosis? And what are the risks/benefits of each? Also, I've read that birth control patches (e.g. Evra) contain a large amount of estrogen (more than oral pills). Does this mean that there is an increased risk of developing cancer when taking the contraceptive patch rather than another hormonal method? Thank you! :) PS. Very impressed with the quality of the response given and the time it was returned! Keep up the good work, it is much appreciated!

Alexandre Chagnon · Accepted Answer

Hello,To reduce the symptoms and pain associated with endometriosis, contraceptives containing both estrogen and progestin (such as Evra) are usually the first choice. This is because this option has more efficacy studies than the IUD, which contains only a progestin. The use of estrogen is also linked to a decreased risk of ovarian and uterine cancer.You're right that the patch contains a greater amount of estrogen, but that's mostly because the patch is in place for 7 days. So it should contain enough medication for a week. In the end, the amount of medication absorbed from the patch would be even less than that taken by mouth. This is the reason why patches are preferred to the pill in certain situations where a relative risk has been identified and linked to the use of hormones.Good day,Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist