Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Reproductive Techniques for Ovarian Monitoring and Control in Amphibians
Published on: May 12, 2019
Update on adolescent contraception
1Department of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ohio State University College of Medicine and Public Health, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, USA.
Modern hormonal contraceptives, including oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) and depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), offer safe and effective options. Emergency contraception remains underutilized due to low awareness among patients and clinicians.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Contraception
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) have advanced with less androgenic progestins and lower ethinyl estradiol doses.
- Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a safe, effective long-acting contraceptive, with irregular bleeding as its primary side effect.
- Norplant, a subdermal implant, offers high continuation rates and is suitable for specific patient groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in hormonal contraception.
- To discuss the safety and efficacy of OCPs, DMPA, and Norplant.
- To highlight the underuse and importance of emergency postcoital contraception.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advances in hormonal contraceptive methods.
- Analysis of safety profiles, efficacy, and side effects of various contraceptive agents.
- Examination of current trends and challenges in emergency contraception utilization.
Main Results:
- Low-dose OCPs are safe regarding venous thrombosis risk in selected patients.
- DMPA is safe and effective, with irregular bleeding as the main concern; its effects on mood and weight require further investigation.
- Norplant demonstrates high continuation rates and is a suitable option for adolescents and those intolerant to other methods.
- Emergency contraception is underused due to lack of awareness, with mechanisms including ovulation delay and implantation interference.
Conclusions:
- Hormonal contraceptive options have evolved, offering safe and effective choices for various populations.
- Addressing side effects like irregular bleeding and increasing awareness of emergency contraception are crucial for optimizing contraceptive use.
- Further research is needed on DMPA's long-term effects, particularly on adolescent bone metabolism.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Gonadal and Placental Hormones
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair growth — and...
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle
Before puberty, the hypothalamus releases GnRH in a low frequency, low amplitude pulsatile manner. This along with the immature hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis activity, results in low estrogen levels and the absence of a fully functional ovarian cycle. At puberty, GnRH secretion increases in both frequency and...
Birth Control Methods
Drug Dosing: Infants and Children
Intrauterine Drug Delivery Systems

