Body gel formulated to replace birth control pills

A new body gel could be a better alternative to the pill and might replace it in the next 5 years, reveal experts.

Rubbing a little of Nestorone, the gel, on the body on a regular basis can avoid pregnancy, just like other contraceptives.

It works by producing a set of the progesterone and oestrogen hormones, which act as a barrier to ovaries releasing an egg each month, researchers reveal.

Advantages of the gel
Manufactured by drug firm Antares Pharma, the gel is free of all associated side-effects like weight gain, acne, dizziness, etc.

Second, it can be easily applied on all body parts including abdomen, thighs, arms, and shoulders.

Then, women who are breastfeeding too can use the gel, unlike the oral contraceptives which cannot be co-related with milk production.

Natika Halil, director of information at the Family Planning Association, said: "Any contraceptive system that increases the choice of methods available to women and helps to prevent unwanted pregnancies is welcome.

"Our research shows that there are approximately two million women using a contraceptive method that they are unhappy with, so they will benefit from improved choices and options.

“This product won't suit everyone and will only be for women comfortable (with) putting it on their skin and having their contraceptive cover that way."

The research details
In order to test the effectiveness of the gel, a research was conducted by Dr Ruth Merkatz from the not-for-profit Population Council research centre in New York.

The study looked at 18 women aged between 20 to 30 years.

While some women were instructed to use 3mg of the gel daily, others were asked to continue their regular contraceptives.

Of the women using the gel, none became pregnant, the research claims.

With the help of hormonal studies, it was concluded that the gel usage had suppressed the production of eggs in the ovary.

Dr Merkatz said: "From this small study we found it was effective. It's in early stage development but if we move on, we will obviously test it in many, many more women."

These findings will be presented at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine in the US.