[Recent progress in contraception].

The main new opportunities in contraceptive technology are the monofilament intra-uterine device (IUD) loaded with copper cylinders, the levonorgestrel-releasing IUD, the subcutaneous implants releasing the same hormone and the possibility of drug-induced medical abortion. Recent research concerning vascular complications related to oral contraception, especially with the third generation progestagens, rises interesting but still unresolved questions because of the numerous bias prevailing in case-control studies. Until now, there is no consensus about new prescription attitudes in relation with the risk of such vascular events. Low-dosis pills (oestrogen at 20 micrograms) are not a first choice for oral contraception as they often induce spotting and abnormal blood loss, and therefore entail low compliance. The contraceptive effects of (quasi-) exclusive breast feeding have been figured out and have resulted in the Lactational Amenorrhoea Method (LAM). Future contraceptive methods will include new postcoïtal methods, new injectables with quicker reversibility and less amenorrhoea, biodegradable implants, weekly applicable patches, male-oriented methods combining an androgen and a progestin, and reversible immuno-contraception directed against the gonadotropins.