Hormonal contraceptive methodology: an historical review

The introduction of the first hormonal contraceptive was one of the most important events of the twentieth century for women. The availability of oral contraceptives (OCs) provided women with greater control over their reproductive lives. As OC usage steadily increased, so did concern over health risks associated with their use. Concluding that adverse events were dose-related, scientists sought to develop lower-dose formulations. In the four decades since the first OC, women seeking contraception have benefited from the development of non-oral hormonal delivery systems, including injectables, intrauterine devices, implants, a vaginal ring, and a contraceptive patch. It is hoped that this expanding menu of choices affords women opportunities to find methods better suited to their individual needs. Clinicians should continually evaluate their patients' hormonal contraceptive needs, and provide adequate counseling so that every woman is afforded the opportunity to achieve contraceptive success.