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Role of progestins in contraception.

Erkkola R, Landgren BM

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Central Hospital, Turku, Finland. risto.erkkola@tyks.fi

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.

Published 17 February 2005 in Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand, 84(3): 207-16.
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