Reproductive control agents

GP-prescribed treatments are effective for heavy periods

Most women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding can be safely and effectively treated by their GP and do not need to be referred to secondary care for a surgical intervention, a large study has found.…

Frank P Palopoli (1922–2016)

The scientist who discovered the fertility drug clomifene was known as a modest man who mentored his staff.…

Progesterone accelerates recovery from flu virus

Progesterone was found to enhance recovery from influenza in mice and so could also have benefits for humans during disease outbreaks, say researchers…

Coil as effective as emergency contraception pill, says UK health technology assessment body

Women seeking emergency contraception should be advised that an intrauterine device (IUD, or coil) is more effective than the morning after pill, the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care (NICE) announced on 8 September 2016.…

Drone flies abortion pills to Northern Ireland to highlight its abortion laws

A drone carrying abortion pills landed in Northern Ireland on 21 June 2016 as part of a stunt organised to highlight the strict abortion laws in the province.…

Concerns around buying emergency hormonal contraception online

The practice of online prescribing and buying medicines on the internet is expanding and it can play a positive role in providing care for our ever growing population. However, concerns have been raised at the news that some women are buying emergency hormonal contraceptive (EHC) pills from overseas…

Overcoming the challenges in developing male contraceptives

With several hormonal and non-hormonal male contraceptive candidates in the pipeline, researchers are hoping to ignite interest from a wary pharmaceutical industry.…

RPS survey sheds light on day-to-day role of pharmacists

RPS survey highlights the key services and interactions provided by pharmacists across the NHS each week.…

Sperm activation finding could lead to new contraceptives

Enzyme that activates sperm mobility could lead to new contraceptives or treatment for male infertility.…

Contraceptive implant linked to repeat abortion

Women who use a contraceptive implant are more likely to have a repeat abortion than those using certain birth control methods, a UK study suggests.…