Summary
Hormonal contraceptives suppress ovulation using synthetic oestrogen and progestins.
In depth
Combined pills contain ethinyloestradiol and a progestin; progestin-only pills thicken cervical mucus. Risks: slight increase of clotting for combined pills. Emergency contraception includes levonorgestrel and ulipristal. Male pill research continues.
Hormonal methods act through negative feedback and cervical mucus. Long-acting reversible methods are highly effective. Side effects vary.
Remember: emergency contraception delays ovulation; it is not an abortion pill.
Frequently asked questions
What is Contraceptive Pharmacology?
Hormonal contraceptives suppress ovulation using synthetic oestrogen and progestins.
Which area of biology covers Contraceptive Pharmacology, and how advanced is it?
Contraceptive Pharmacology is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Contraception, Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle, Menstrual Cycle.
Can you give an example of Contraceptive Pharmacology?
The first pill, Enovid, was approved in 1960.
What should I learn before Contraceptive Pharmacology?
Work through the Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology first, such as Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Sexual Reproduction, then return to Contraceptive Pharmacology. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Contraceptive Pharmacology?
The closest topics to Contraceptive Pharmacology are Contraception, Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle, Menstrual Cycle, Female Reproductive System. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Contraceptive Pharmacology?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Contraceptive Pharmacology. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
How is Contraceptive Pharmacology different from Contraception?
Contraceptive Pharmacology: Hormonal contraceptives suppress ovulation using synthetic oestrogen and progestins. Contraception: Methods that prevent pregnancy, including barriers, hormones and sterilisation. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Contraceptive Pharmacology step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Contraception and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.