The role of new progestins in women's health

The need for safe and efficacious hormone use underlines the importance of long-term contraceptive options as well as safe short-term hormone replacement when symptoms and clinical judgment dictate this course of action. For contracepting women, new progestins have been introduced in an attempt to provide more effective options with fewer side effects. These have been designed to suit a variety of personal needs and life styles. These agents, found in oral contraceptives, injectables, transdermals, transvaginal rings and intrauterine systems, carry improved risk profiles and a wide range of noncontraceptive benefits. For the post-reproductive woman with a uterus the emphasis is on progestin options with the lowest dose and least systemic side effects. These options must, according to the U.S. FDA, prove not only their efficacy but also their safety. Ongoing studies will be necessary to ensure that menopausal women also enjoy safe hormone use for symptom reduction as well as other possible benefits.