[Advances in research on the steroid contraceptives]

A general overview of the chemical structures and development of synthetic estrogens and steroid contraceptives is presented. The first truly successful steroid contraceptive, Enovid, was developed in 1960. There are now some 40 steroid contraceptives marketed around the world. The specific properties of various highly effective, long term antiovulatory oral contraceptives, i.e., lynestrenol and desogestrel, are discussed. The formation of progesterone-receptor complexes in cellular fluids and other biochemical processes, the biochemical action of antispermotoxins, i.e., Danazol, and biochemical synthesis of steroid contraceptives are explored in further detail.