R. B. Greenblatt Bücher

R. B. GREENBLATT discusses the evolution of oral contraceptives, highlighting that early formulations contained higher doses of oestrogen (ethinyloestradiol or mestranol) and progestagen (norethynodrel or norethisterone) than necessary for effective conception control. Over time, there has been a trend towards reducing these dosages to minimize side effects while maintaining efficacy. However, lower dosages have led to increased instances of spotting and breakthrough bleeding in the initial months of use. The sequential pill, which aimed to align more closely with physiological principles, required larger doses of oestrogen to prevent ovulation, resulting in a higher pregnancy rate and making it less appealing. A new triphasic formulation has emerged that leverages the synergy between ethinyloestradiol and levonorgestrel, allowing for low doses of oestrogen and very low doses of progestagen to be used effectively. This preparation is associated with fewer side effects, adhering to the pharmacological principle of minimal dosing for desired outcomes. The regimen divides the cycle into three phases, using varying doses of oestrogen over 21 days, closely mimicking the natural hormonal fluctuations in the menstrual cycle.

This book contains a consensus on menopause research, a consensus reached during the First International Congress on the Menopause in June, 1976. The Congress brought together about 165 people, most of whom are engaged in research in this field, in the resort town of La Grande Motte, near Montpellier, France. It was planned so that the main emphasis would be on the exchange of information in small Workshop sessions. Workshop Chairmen were asked to present summaries of their deliberations at the closing session. It is these summaries that form the essence of this text. The Congress also included six Free Communications sessions. They are represented in this book by a small number of papers printed in full (selected from some 40 contributions in all) that in the opinion of the editors, contain data that particularly complement the Workshop summaries. All other papers are mentioned in these Pro ceedings by titles and by the name, affiliation and address of the first author. Organizing this Congress was a stimulating and heart-warming experience. It was done by the staff of the International Health Foundation in Brussels and Geneva, under the considerate auspices of the American Geriatric Society and the Medical Faculty of the University of Montpellier. We are deeply grateful to these two bodies."