Contraceptive gel shows promise as alternative to pill
There are millions of women who are unhappy with the current contraceptive methods they are using due to the side effects, hassle in use etc. but they will have alternative choice now. A birth control gel that is applied to the skin could offer woman an alternative to the Pill, say experts. Used once daily, it delivers hormones to prevent a pregnancy in the same way as oral contraceptives do. Early studies show the gel is effective and well tolerated, with none of the typical side effects associated with the Pill, like weight gain and acne. The Nestorone gel is being developed with drug firm Antares Pharma. Researchers told the American Society for Reproductive Medicine how they hope to bring the product to market if clinical trial results continue to be positive. The gel can be applied to the abdomen, thighs, arms or shoulders and is quickly absorbed, with no residue. Experts say it is also suitable for women who are breastfeeding, unlike the combined Pill which can interfere with milk supply. Dr Ruth Merkatz from the not-for-profit Population Council research centre in New York led the latest study, which involved 18 women in their 20s to 30s. Over the course of seven months, none of the women using the treatment fell pregnant. Hormone studies showed the gel suppressed the production of eggs by the ovary. "It is in early stage development but if we move on, we will obviously test it in many, many more women," say researchers. Clearly what young women need is more choice. Experts hope this could be a good alternative method of contraception. Source: BBC
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