[Initial experiences with a levonorgestrel-ethinyl estradiol combination for interception].

Several authors have reported on reliable postcoital contraception, using an estrogen/gestagen combination. These studies in more than a hundred women showed, that the unprotected intercourse in less than 50% took place around ovulation. Pregnancy rates from 0.7 to 2.6% were observed. From October 1987 to July 88, 50 women after unprotected intercourse around ovulation were included in our study. From one to 44 hours after intercourse, 0.5 mg levonorgestrel + 0.1 mg ethinylestradiol (Tetragynon) were administered orally. The same dose was repeated 12 hours later. Cervical secretion, LH- and E2 and P-serum levels at the time of the first administration were determined and side effects and bleeding patterns were registered. In one third of the women, we observed slight side effects. The bleeding resulted 5 to 29 days after the first tablet administration. Shortened menstruation cycles were seen more often than prolonged cycles. Bleeding duration was only slightly prolonged. Two pregnancies occurred - both women vomited immediately after the first medication and disregarded the order to visit our department again as quickly as possible. Tetragynon is not appropriate for regular contraception and should only be used in emergency situations.