Contraceptive Technology Update – July 1, 2003
July 1, 2003
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Extended-use contraception offers revolution in reproductive choices
A young woman sits before you. She has an active lifestyle that requires her to travel a great deal. She is not interested in having children within the next year, and she is looking for convenient, effective contraception. What choices do you offer? -
When to menstruate: what women want
What are womens preferences when it comes to frequency and characteristics of menstrual bleeding in relation to reproductive status and oral contraceptive use? Here are highlights from a 2002 survey. -
Researchers explore extended contraception
Extending the traditional 21/7 regimen of several forms of hormonal contraception has captured the attention of research scientists, and results of their investigations may lead to new approved uses of birth control drugs. -
Help educate for success with extended pill use
For patients who are considering extended or continuous use of combined oral contraceptives (OCs), thorough counseling is an important aspect of ensuring success with the method. -
Guest Column: A new season: Extending the 21/7 pill regimen
No birth control pill has been marketed that has instructed a woman to take more than 21 consecutive pills that are hormonally active. The new pill, Seasonale, under review by the Food and Drug Administration at press time, will instruct women to take 84 consecutive pills. -
Ask the Experts: Safety and efficacy top clinicians’ queries
Are low-dose oral contraceptives (OCs) a safe form of birth control for women with well-controlled hypertension? What is the impact of weight on contraceptive efficacy? -
News flash: Plan B files for OTC status
Over-the-counter (OTC) status for emergency contraception has moved a step closer with the Washington, DC-based Womens Capital Corp.s April 2003 filing with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to switch its levonorgestrel drug Plan B from prescription to OTC status. -
Contraceptive Technology Reports: Evaluation of a Female-Controlled Intravaginal Barrier Device: The FemCap
Because the use of barrier methods other than male condoms has decreased, contraceptive research has focused on finding an acceptable female-controlled method serving the dual function of protecting against pregnancy and HIV. The latest barrier method on the market, approved in March 2003, is the FemCap.