Reducing hormone levels in contraceptives could minimise side effects, new study finds

Of all the methods available for reducing risk of pregnancy, most contraceptives contain hormones – including the contraceptive pill, the IUS ‘coil’ (or intrauterine system), and the implant. But what if these methods could be introducing lower levels of hormones into our bodies?

A computational model has calculated that hormone levels in common contraceptives could be reduced by 92 per cent and still be effective at suppressing ovulation.

The results of the study could help clinicians with “optimal dosing formulations and schedule of therapy”, according to PhD researcher Brenda Lyn A….