Contraceptive options for the 1990s

Estrogen-progestin combination oral contraceptives (COCs) are well tolerated, offer high reliability, convenience, and ready availability, but require strict adherence to dosing guidelines. Progesterones work by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and/or suppressing endometrial growth. An FDA advisory committee has concluded that the benefits outweigh the risks of the mifepristone/misoprostol regimen for use in the United States. IUDs are a good choice for women who want to avoid the inconvenience of barrier methods and who cannot use other forms of contraception. Barrier contraceptives offer low cost and easy availability, but lower effectiveness than other methods.