Role of progestins in contraception.
Progestins have been used for contraception for more than 30 years. The main goal was to develop a contraceptive method devoid of the metabolic or clinical side-effects associated with the use of estrogens. The development of new contraceptive methods and formulations is time-consuming and requires devotion, belief, and also strong economical basis. As a result of this endeavor new methods have been developed: oral progestins, implants, injectables, intrauterine hormonal systems, and vaginal rings. Progestin-only contraceptives may be preferable in some situations, which have absolute or relative contraindications to estrogen, side-effects to estrogen containing hormonal contraception, lactation, and comfort and feasibility of formulations for long-term use. At present, emergency contraception is also performed with progestin.
Erkkola
Risto
R
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Central Hospital, Turku, Finland. risto.erkkola@tyks.fi
Landgren
Britt-Marie
BM
D002582:Cervix Mucus / Q000187:drug effects; D003267:Contraception / Q000379:methods*; D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology*; D003274:Contraceptive Devices, Female; D003276:Contraceptives, Oral; D003277:Contraceptives, Oral, Combined; D004343:Drug Implants; D004717:Endometrium / Q000187:drug effects; D005187:Fallopian Tubes / Q000187:drug effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007434:Intrauterine Devices; D010060:Ovulation / Q000187:drug effects; D045167:Progesterone Congeners / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000502:physiology; D012102:Reproductive Control Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects
D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female; D003276:Contraceptives, Oral; D003277:Contraceptives, Oral, Combined; D004343:Drug Implants; D045167:Progesterone Congeners; D012102:Reproductive Control Agents