Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Exam Prep 2025 – Complete Practice Resource

The correct answer points to the fact that combined oral contraceptives (COCs) typically lead to reduced menstrual flow, which is often referred to as hypomenorrhea. COCs contain synthetic forms of estrogen and progestin, which work to suppress ovulation and stabilize the endometrial lining. As a result, the thickness of the endometrial lining is diminished, leading to less menstrual tissue being shed during menstruation.

This effect results in lighter periods that many women experience while on COCs. In addition to the reduction in flow, many women report other benefits such as decreased cramping and fewer menstrual-related symptoms.

Other potential changes in menstrual patterns can occur, such as irregular bleeding or amenorrhea, particularly in the early stages of using COCs; however, these are not the typical expected outcomes compared to the reduction in flow itself. Understanding these pharmacological effects is crucial for assessing the overall impact of contraceptive methods on a patient's menstrual health.