The use by women of synthetic progestogen drugs, which are often combined with synthetic oestrogens, to prevent pregnancy. These drugs suppress ovulation and make cervical mucus thick and impenetrable to sperm. They also cause thinning of the endometrium (lining of the uterus), which reduces the chance of a fertilized egg implanting successfully. The best-known form of hormonal contraception is the contraceptive pill (see oral contraceptives). The hormones can also be given as contraceptive implants under the skin, by injection (see contraceptives, injectable), or be released by IUDs.
Contraception, hormonal methods of |
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