A birth control medication that includes estetrol, a hormone produced only during the fetal stage, is linked to antitumor activity and may lower the risk of atherosclerosis. This view comes from Yulia Koloda, a reproductive specialist and medical director at the Life Line center, speaking to a health publication.
“The medicine contains estetrol. The fetal liver makes this estrogen during pregnancy, and after birth it is no longer detected in the body. Researchers have not yet pinpointed why estetrol is produced in this life stage,” Koloda explained.
The expert noted one prevailing theory: during pregnancy, estetrol may help shield the mammary gland from excessive estrogen exposure, potentially reducing the risk of breast cancer later on.
“In studies of a drug containing estetrol, there is evidence of antitumor activity by diminishing the proliferative effect of estradiol, another female sex hormone. In addition, doses found in the birth control pill do not seem to produce negative effects on the mammary gland. A second important benefit is a lower risk of thromboembolism, meaning the chance of blood vessel obstruction is reduced,” the reproductive specialist observed.
Clinically, the medication described by Koloda is regarded as one of the safer birth control options. However, women who smoke or who experience migraines are advised not to use it.
“Because no separate safety criteria have been established for this drug at this time, it should not be used by these patient groups. Updating recommendations takes years and extensive research. Even though there is not enough data yet, the drug is still very new. Therefore, for patients who smoke or who have migraine with aura, potential complications cannot be ruled out,” Koloda cautioned.
Earlier in her career, the reproductive specialist dismissed some commonly cited methods for conceiving a boy as a myth.
In summary, estetrol-containing birth control presents a new option with potential antitumor and cardiovascular considerations, warranting cautious use and ongoing research to clarify safety and efficacy across different patient populations, especially in the United States and Canada.