Abstract

MONTERROSA, Alvaro. Progestin only-oral contraceptives. Rev Colomb Obstet Ginecol [online]. 2006, vol.57, n.1, pp.45-53. ISSN 0034-7434.

Although progestin-only oral contraceptives or mini-pills have been available for many years, they are less known and less prescribed or recommended than combined oral contraceptives. Due to being oestrogen-free, progestin-only oral contraceptives have an important role and a defined place in contemporary hormonal contraception. The first progestin mini-pills (ethynodiol, linestrenol and norethisterone) were followed by levonorgestrel and then desogestrel; drospirenone is now being evaluated. The levonorgestrel mini-pill has always had a unique place in oral contraception whilst breastfeeding; the desogestrel mini-pill may also be recommended beyond the breastfeeding period due to its ovulation-inhibiting ability. Such ability has also been observed when prescribing drospirenone-only pills. The purpose of this review is to orientate people working in the area of health to identify the differences and similarities between the mini-pill and combined oral contraceptives. Progestin-only oral contraceptives must be considered during contraceptive counselling to ensure good clinical safety and because of the observed benefits.

Keywords : mini pill; contraception; contraceptives; oral; progestins; progestin-only contraceptives; progestagens.

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