Steroidal Contraceptives

Question 1

What is the most widely used oral contraceptives?

What does the formulation consist of?

Answer 1

The most widely used contraceptive is the combined oral contraceptive pill.

This pill contains a synthetic oestrogen and synthetic progesterone.

Oestrogen is kept as low as possible to reduced side effects.

Question 2

How does the oral contraceptive COCP work?

Answer 2

COCP inhibits release of FSH and LH inhibiting follicle development, prevent ovulation and make cervical mucus inhospitable to sperm this results in the superficial layer being unsuitable for implantation.

Question 3

What regime would be used in the administration of COCP?

Answer 3

It’s would be taken for 21/28 days of the menstrual cycle and then the patient will remain pill free for 28 days.

Question 4

What type of oestrogen and progesterone maybe used in COCP?

Answer 4

Ethinylestradiol is a oestrogen used and an progesterone used would be levonorgestrel.

Question 5

What is the oral contraceptive POP and how does this act as a contraceptive?

Answer 5

Progestogen only pill, taken every day makes the cervical mucus inhospitable to sperm and the endometrium less receptive to implantation.

Question 6

What are the other benefits are associated with COCP?

Answer 6

They can decrease irregular periods, bleeding and pain.