Evaluation of the contraceptive efficacy of quingestanol acetate (W 4540) when administered as an oral low-dose conraceptive in the puerperium.

PIP: 652 women (80% postpartum) who received 300 mcg daily doses of quingestanol acetate (W 4540) for an average of 9.6 cycles were observed during a 3-year study conducted by Ramon Sarda Maternal and Children's Hospital of Buenos Aires. Of 16 pregnancies, 6 were attributed to drug failure for a rate of 3.1/100 woman-years. It was found that menstrual cycle length, duration, and amount of flow were consistent with normal cycles. Amenorrhea was observed in 65% of the patients and in 24% of the cycles. 35% of all patients had at least 1 case of intermenstrual bleeding. Spotting was reported in 32% of the patients and in 6% of the cycles. Except for headaches (8% of the cases, 2% of total cycles) no significant side effects were experienced. 92% of the women are still on treatment. Quingestanol acetate (300 mcg daily) was found to be clinically safe and effective for postpartum patients.^ieng