This one-hour, interactive learning program reviews recent innovations in the redesign of oral contraception. It begins with a brief examination of why the first birth control pill was designed as it was (i.e. with 21 days of active pills and a 7-day hormone-free interval), and why low-dose estrogen options were introduced. The presentation then explores the scientific rationale for a shorter hormone-free interval (namely, that the physiology of follicular development suggests it may provide greater inhibition of follicular development and suppression of ovarian steroid synthesis). The clinical and practical benefits and trade-offs associated with shorter hormone-free intervals are identified, and data pertaining to the two Health Canada-approved non-21/7 regimens are considered (i.e. a pill containing drospirenone 3 mg and ethinyl estradiol 20 μg in a 24/4 regimen, and a pill containing levonorgestrel 150 μg and ethinyl estradiol 20 μg in an 84/7 regimen). Lastly, the presentation explores ways to effectively counsel patients on the newer oral contraceptive regimens, and help them make appropriate choices.

Learning Objectives

Following this program, participants will be able to:

• Describe the scientific rationale for OC pills with shorter hormone-free intervals
• Summarize the available data on the efficacy and safety of the newer regimens
• Identify the clinical and practical benefits and trade-offs associated with these newer regimens
• Effectively counsel patients on the newer oral contraceptive regimens, and help them make appropriate choices

This program meets the accreditation criteria of the College of Family Physicians of Canada and has been accredited for up to 1.0 Mainpro-M1 credit.

For instructions on how to claim credits for completing this program, click here.

This initiative has been made possible through an educational grant from