Ethinylestradiol/gestodene

Ethinylestradiol/gestodene is a combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) that is used for the prevention of pregnancy. It contains two types of hormones, ethinylestradiol (an estrogen) and gestodene (a progestogen). This combination of hormones prevents ovulation, alters the cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg, and changes the lining of the uterus to prevent attachment of a fertilized egg.

Composition

Ethinylestradiol/gestodene contains 20 micrograms of ethinylestradiol and 75 micrograms of gestodene. The hormones are synthetic versions of the naturally occurring female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Mechanism of action

The primary mechanism of action of ethinylestradiol/gestodene is inhibition of ovulation. The estrogen component, ethinylestradiol, suppresses the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, preventing the development and release of an egg from the ovary. The progestogen component, gestodene, thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus and reach any eggs that may have been released. It also changes the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) to make it less likely that a fertilized egg can attach to it.

Side effects

Common side effects of ethinylestradiol/gestodene include nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, and changes in menstrual bleeding patterns. Less common side effects include mood changes, weight gain, and acne. Rare but serious side effects include blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.

Contraindications

Ethinylestradiol/gestodene should not be used in women who have a history of venous or arterial thrombosis, liver disease, breast cancer, or migraines with aura. It should also not be used in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

See also

• Oral contraceptive pill
• Ethinylestradiol
• Gestodene