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Progestogens in Contraception

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Progestogens in Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Abstract

Progestogens are the basic active agent of hormonal contraception. Three modes of contraceptive action can be distinguished.

  1. (a)

    A strong antigonadotropic action leading to ovulation inhibition.

  2. (b)

    Thickening of the cervical mucus to inhibit sperm penetration.

  3. (c)

    Desynchronisation of the endometrial changes necessary for implantation.

Progestogens for contraception are either used in combined hormonal contraceptives or as progestogen only contraceptives.

According to their introduction into the market progestogens in combined hormonal contraceptives are described as first, second, third and fourth generation progestogens.

According to the structure different derivatives from testosterone, progesterone and spironolactone are available.

The differences in the molecular structure determine pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic differential effects which contribute to tolerability and additional beneficial or therapeutic effects.

Progestogen only contraceptives are available as daily oral preparations, monthly injections, implants (2–3 years), and Intrauterine Systems (IUS).

The long acting progestogens are highly effective in typical use and have a very low risk profile.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland

    Johannes Bitzer M.D.

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  1. Johannes Bitzer M.D.
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Correspondence to Johannes Bitzer M.D. .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Tel Aviv, Israel

    Howard J.A. Carp

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© 2015 Springer International Publishing Switzerland

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Bitzer, J. (2015). Progestogens in Contraception. In: Carp, H. (eds) Progestogens in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-14385-9_8

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