Estradiol-containing_oral_contraceptive
Combined birth control pills that contain natural estradiol or an estradiol ester (e.g., estradiol valerate) include:[1][2][3]
- Estradiol valerate and cyproterone acetate (brand name Femilar) – introduced in Finland (only) in 1993[3]
- Estradiol valerate and dienogest (brand names Qlaira, Natazia) – introduced in Europe in 2009 and the U.S. in 2010[4]
- Estradiol and nomegestrol acetate (brand name Zoely) – introduced in Europe in 2011[5]
Estradiol, mainly as esters including estradiol valerate, estradiol cypionate, and estradiol enanthate, is also the exclusive estrogen used in combined injectable contraceptives.[6]
As of 2021, more than 95% of prescriptions are for combined hormonal birth control forms containing the synthetic estrogen ethinylestradiol (EE).[7] Hence, estradiol-based birth control pills are still not widely used.[7]