A review of the effects of long-acting progestogen-only contraceptives on ovarian activity.
Progestogen-only contraception acts mainly by blocking cervical mucus and preventing sperm penetration through it does have a variable pattern of contraceptive effects on the endometrium and ovary. In contrast with the complete suppression of ovarian function with combined pill or injectable use, a variable degree of endocrine activity is demonstrated in women choosing a long-acting progestogen-only contraceptive. This degree of suppression of ovarian activity explains the decrease in systemic side-effects, the rapid resumption of ovulation and recovery of fertility following the discontinuation of the method. New delivery systems of progestogens, the vaginal ring and implant, offer better and more consistent contraceptive effects.
Li
X F
XF
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Birmingham Maternity Hospital, Edgbaston, UK.
Davies
G C
GC
Newton
J
J
D002582:Cervix Mucus / Q000187:drug effects; D003274:Contraceptive Devices, Female; D004343:Drug Implants; D004958:Estradiol / Q000097:blood; D005187:Fallopian Tubes / Q000187:drug effects; D005260:Female; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D007030:Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / Q000187:drug effects; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone / Q000097:blood; D010053:Ovary / Q000187:drug effects*; D011374:Progesterone / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*; D014599:Uterus / Q000187:drug effects
D004343:Drug Implants; D011374:Progesterone; D004958:Estradiol; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone