New study confirms the beneficial impact of the oral contraceptive pill on the menstrual cycle, saying that use of the pill can significantly lower period pains and cramps, reports MSN Health.

The Swedish study involved three groups of women, each consisting of 400 to 520 subjects, the US cable news channel notes. The participants, who belonged to different age groups, were quizzed about their period problems, pregnancy history, and birth control use, informs the health portal.

On analysing the data, researchers from Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University conclude that women who regularly use the oral contraceptive pill tend to suffer less from period-related complications compared to those who do not take it. The study authors also note that the finding is independent of age-induced dysmenorrhoea as the pill was found to have an alleviating effect on period issues regardless of age.

The combination of oestrogen and progestogen in combined oral contraceptive pills does the trick for a majority of women using them for non-contraceptive purposes, says MSN Health on the basis of the study report.

Commenting on the study, New York-based gynecologist/obstetrician Dr Jenifer Wu tells MSN Health that the finding is significant but not new as many doctors recommend combined birth control pills for treatment of menstrual troubles or acne.

The news portal also mentions that the outcome of the Swedish study confirms a 2009 investigation into the possible link between contraceptive pill use and relief from menstrual problems. In 2009, researchers could not gather ample evidence to substantiate their claim, it notes.