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A new mathematical model suggests that effective suppression of ovulation for contraception could be achieved using lower doses of progestogen and estrogen than those currently used in hormonal contraceptives. A paper published today in PLOS Computational Biology describes the model and its findings. The authors highlight that lower exposure to exogenous hormones could reduce associated health risks and side effects. The model could be used to inform dose and regimen of exogenous hormones to be investigated by future clinical trials seeking to find new options for safe, effective and acceptable contraception. Clinical trials would be required to investigate what outcomes, with such regimens, were found in practice.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has decided not to update their 2005 guidance on long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) at this time because changes to the current recommendations are not required.