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Related Experiment Videos

A new delivery system for contraceptive steroids.

S Segal1

  • 1Population Sciences, Rockefeller Foundation, New York, New York.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|October 1, 1987
PubMed
Summary

Long-acting subdermal contraceptive implants provide effective, reversible birth control for up to six years. This method, using levonorgestrel implants, eliminates the daily concern of remembering oral contraceptives.

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Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Biomaterials Science
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Silicone rubber, a biocompatible polymer, is utilized in developing long-acting contraceptive devices.
  • Subdermal implants offer a novel delivery system for hormonal contraception.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the development and efficacy of levonorgestrel-releasing subdermal contraceptive implants.
  • To evaluate the long-term effectiveness and reversibility of this contraceptive method.

Main Methods:

  • Six levonorgestrel implants (Norplant) are inserted subdermally in the upper arm under local anesthesia.
  • The implants release a continuous low dose of levonorgestrel (approx. 39 mcg/day) for 5-6 years.
  • Effectiveness and fertility recurrence after removal were assessed in long-term clinical studies.
Keywords:
BiologyContraceptionContraceptive AgentsContraceptive Agents, FemaleContraceptive Agents, ProgestinContraceptive ImplantsContraceptive MethodsEndocrine SystemEvaluationFamily PlanningHormonesLevonorgestrelPhysiologyProgestational HormonesProgesteroneReproductive Control Agents

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Main Results:

  • The subdermal implants provide effective contraception for 5-6 years, maintaining blood progestogen levels of 0.25-0.3 ng/ml.
  • This method significantly reduces the daily burden of contraceptive adherence compared to oral pills.
  • Fertility returns promptly upon removal of the implants, demonstrating voluntary reversibility.

Conclusions:

  • Long-acting subdermal levonorgestrel implants are a highly effective and reversible contraceptive option.
  • The continuous, low-dose progestogen therapy offers a reliable alternative to daily oral contraceptives.
  • This technology provides long-term pregnancy prevention with the assurance of prompt fertility restoration.