Understanding the Importance of Estrogen in Combined Oral Contraceptives: A Closer Look at Estetrol and Ethinylestradiol

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) represent the most common method of contraception in Northern America and Europe and are among the most commonly used method of reversible contraception among Canadian women. Through effective counseling, pharmacists can significantly contribute to the successful use of contraceptives, enhancing patient outcomes and satisfaction. They can help in the selection of estrogen-containing oral contraceptive based on patient factors, considering individual health needs, lifestyle factors, and management of side effects.

This course is accredited by CCCEP for 1.25 CEUs; course number CCCEP #1329-2024-3784-I-P

Supported by educational funding from Searchlight Pharma Inc.

Learning Objectives

1. Recall the mechanism of action of estrogen in oral contraceptives, and its significance in
   contraceptive efficacy and impact on menstrual regulation.
2. Describe the various estrogen-containing oral contraceptives in Canada, and the derivation and distinctions of estetrol (E4) compared to ethinylestradiol (EE).
3. Discuss the selection of estrogen-containing oral contraceptive based on patient factors,
   considering individual health needs, lifestyle factors, and management of side effects.
4. Discuss the pharmacist’s role in providing effective counselling on the use of estrogen-containing oral contraceptives.

Course Author: Victor Wong, PharmD