Open AccessRole of progestins in contraception
Author(s) -
Erkkola Risto,
Landgren BrittMarie
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
acta obstetricia et gynecologica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.401
H-Index - 102
eISSN - 1600-0412
pISSN - 0001-6349
DOI - 10.1111/j.0001-6349.2005.00759.x
Subject(s) - medicine , progestin , family planning , estrogen , levonorgestrel , hormonal contraception , emergency contraception , gynecology , obstetrics , physiology , hormone , population , research methodology , endocrinology , environmental health
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.