The fiction of an ideal hormonal contraceptive

Hormonal Contraception and Physiology: A Research‐based Theory of Discontinuation Due to Side Effects

“…Although an ideal contraceptive may be an impossible goal (Elstein and Furniss 1996), nonetheless, clearly, one pill does not suit all women. Even within industrialized populations, practice guidelines dictate that selection of a specific oral contraceptive for an individual varies depending upon the client's past use, experience of side effects, and medical history (Burkman 1997).…”

The Effects of Valette® on Skin and Hair: A Post‐marketing Surveillance Study

“…In addition, conversion of oestrogens to androgens by aromatase, or transformation of weak androgens to more potent ones, occurs in extraglandular sites including the skin, hair follicles and sebaceous glands 18 . In women with underlying abnormalities of androgen metabolism, these features are amplified, and may be accompanied by other androgenic effects, such as irregular menstruation and hirsutism 2,4 . Oral contraceptives are a logical prophylaxis and treatment choice in such women.…”

“…3 Besides producing adverse metabolic effects, 1 these progestogens can promote sebum production, leading to greasy skin and hair. While these androgen‐related skin and hair changes are cosmetic rather than serious, they are an important factor in non‐compliance with oral contraceptives, and are a major reason for women discontinuing treatment 4 . It is therefore important to minimise such ‘nuisance’ effects.…”