PROSTAGLANDINS AND PROGESTERONE-RECEPTOR ANTAGONISTS IN HUMAN-FERTILITY REGULATION

Anti-progesterone medicines have now been extensively studied for huma n fertility regulation. The combination of the anti-progesterone Mifep ristone with prostaglandin analogues such as Gemeprost and Misoprostol have been used in several European centres for medical abortion. Used before nine weeks gestation, these medicines have similar efficacy to surgical abortion. In addition, administration of progesterone antago nists within five days of unprotected intercourse appear effective in pregnancy prevention. Anti-progesterone medicines are not currently av ailable in Australia. The introduction of progesterone receptor antago nists and modern prostaglandins would save approximately $10,000,000 p er year to the Australian Health Budget. Furthermore, the introduction of progesterone receptor antagonists for emergency contraception woul d have even greater financial and emotional savings for Australian wom en. In Australia, when known carcinogens can be purchased over the cou nter, it is surely time for Australians to consider effective emergenc y contraception bought over the counter.