[Update on the use of oral contraceptives in the treatment of endometriosis].

Endometriosis has a prevalence of about 10% and benefits from hormonal contraceptive treatment. It is a chronic and recurrent illness that occurs in fertile women, and is characterised by ectopic endometrial tissue. Clinical manifestations are: infertility, pain and pelvic mass. The goals of the treatment are: relief of symptoms, prevention of progression of disease and the stimulation of fertility. Current treatment options are: Expectant management, analgesia, hormonal therapy, surgery and combined therapies. The use of combined contraceptives is associated with a reduced risk of developing endometriosis, they are also a good choice to prevent pregnancy, and for women with minimal or mild symptoms. Progestins are used for symptomatic endometriosis and as an adjuvant to surgery. The combined contraceptives and the progestins must be considered as a first line treatment.