2005/04/01 by Oliver P. Milling Smith, Hilary Critchley, Hilary O.D. Critchley +1 · 1 citation
Medicine · Social Sciences · #Education for Peace and Conflict Resolution #Endometriosis Research and Treatment #International Relations in Latin America #Ovarian function and disorders #Reproductive Health and Contraception #Social Issues and Policies in Latin America
paper · doi:10.1007/s10456-005-9003-z
openalex publication_date 2008/01/01 · openalex created_date 2016/06/24 · openalex updated_date 2026/04/28
Progestogen only contraceptives (POC) provide a safe and effective method of fertility regulation. Unfortunately, they are commonly associated with the problem of endometrial break through bleeding (BTB), often leading to discontinuation of use. An increase in endometrial vascular fragility has been demonstrated as an important mechanism that contributes to BTB but our understanding of the interaction between exogenous steroid use and endometrial vasculature remains incomplete. This review sets out to describe a number of commonly used POC, their effects on endometrial morphology and possible molecular and cellular mechanisms that may lead to unscheduled bleeding.