Contraceptive Technology Update 2012-07-01

Face the facts on EC: Time to move from ECP to IUD for effectiveness

In 1992, reproductive health advocates estimated that widespread use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) could prevent half of all U.S. unintended pregnancies and abortions.

Long-acting reversible methods said superior in effectiveness

Family planners now have proof positive that the intrauterine device (IUD) and the contraceptive implant, two long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC methods), are superior in their effectiveness, compared to the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill, patch, or ring.

FDA issues new labeling for drospirenone pills

Look for new labeling on combined oral contraceptives (OCs) containing drospirenone following the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) review of studies regarding the risk of blood clots in women using such formulations.

New OC formulation now in research focus

Results from a multi-country clinical trial of a combined oral contraceptive (OC) containing nomegestrol acetate and 17-beta estradiol indicate it is an effective pill with good cycle control.

Research eyes DMPA, cancer risks/benefits

Family planning clinicians are familiar with the injectable contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) as an effective form of reversible birth control, following only the contraceptive implant and intrauterine device (IUD) in contraceptive efficacy.

Washington Watch: States active again on reproductive health

As of this writing, in mid-May, policymaking at the federal level was at a standstill, with lawmakers waiting on two major events: the Supreme Court's June decision on the Affordable Care Act and the November national elections. So, for this month's column, we'll turn our attention to the state level, where policymakers are having another busy year.

CT Updates: Register now for ARHP meeting

STI Quarterly: Pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention under review by Food and Drug Administration

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention has taken a giant step forward with a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) committee's recommendation for approval of a specific drug for such use.

STI Quarterly: Improve rates now to finish HPV vaccination

Review the records of the girls who have received at least one injection in the three-series vaccination series for human papillomavirus (HPV). How many have completed the series? If new research is any indication, the proportion of those receiving all three shots is low.

STI Quarterly: View webinar on drug-resistant gonorrhea

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a free webinar of its recent Public Health Grand Rounds, "The Growing Threat of Multidrug-Resistant Gonorrhea, available on its web site.

STI Quarterly: Check out exchange site for chlamydia resources

Contraceptive Technology Update – July 1, 2012

July 1, 2012