This review will discuss the non-oral hormonal contraceptive methods – combined injectables, progestogen-only injectables, progestogen implants, the Levonorgestrel intrauterine system and the newer methods of vaginal rings and trans-dermal patches. The advantages of non-oral methods appear to be avoidance of the first pass hepatic metabolism with a possible reduction in incidence of minor side effects and major risks. These methods are longer acting compared to oral contraceptive pills and the dose required for contraceptive effect may also be lower.
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