Contraceptive gel a step closer

A colourless gel rubbed on to the skin daily could be a future alternative to the contraceptive pill, according to new research.

The gel, which is applied to the abdomen, thighs, arms or shoulders, prevents pregnancy by delivering a dose of hormones across the skin and into the bloodstream.

Researchers from the Population Council in New York say it could prove to be an alternative form of contraception, as the gel has none of the side-effects associated with the pill, such as weight gain or acne.

It can also be taken by women who are breastfeeding, unlike the combined pill, which can interfere with a woman's milk supply.

The latest study on the gel involved 18 women in their 20s and 30s. Over the course of seven months, none of the woman fell pregnant.

Researchers found that the gel was well tolerated and the optimum dose needed to prevent pregnancy was 3mg.

Dr Ruth Merkatz, who led the study, said the gel could enhance contraceptive choices available to women.

The gel contains a new type of synthetic progesterone which mimics the woman's naturally occurring hormone, as well as a type of oestrogen which is chemically identical to the natural form.

The gel was developed in conjunction with the drug company Antares Pharma, who hope to market the product if the clinical trial results continue to be positive.

Nikita Halil, director of information at the Family Planning Association, said: "Any contraceptive system that increases the choice of methods available to women and helps to prevent unwanted pregnancies is welcome.

"Our research shows that there are approximately two million women using a contraceptive method that they are unhappy with, so they will benefit from improved choices and options.

"This product won't suit everyone and will only be for women comfortable putting it on their skin and having contraceptive cover that way."

The findings from the study will be presented at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

This article was published on Tue 26 October 2010