Progesterone of choice in Emergency contraception is-
The correct answer should be levonorgestrel, which is the most commonly used progestin in EC. I need to explain why it's the progesterone of choice. Levonorgestrel works by delaying ovulation, inhibiting fertilization, or preventing implantation. It's effective when taken within 72 hours, which is a key point.
Now, for the incorrect options. Let's assume the options include other progestins or unrelated hormones. For example, norethindrone is another progestin but isn't used in EC. Ulipristal is a selective progesterone receptor modulator, which is different from progestin. Mifepristone is an antiprogestin used for medical abortion, not EC. Estrogen isn't used in EC because it's not effective and has more side effects.
The clinical pearl should highlight the time frame for effectiveness and the preferred choice. Also, noting that ulipristal is effective up to 120 hours but might be less accessible. The correct answer is likely Levonorgestrel, so I'll structure the explanation around that, making sure each section is concise and meets the character limit.
**Core Concept**
Emergency contraception (EC) primarily uses progestins to prevent pregnancy. The most effective and widely recommended progestin is **levonorgestrel**, which acts by delaying ovulation and altering endometrial receptivity. It is the first-line agent due to its safety profile and efficacy when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestin with high affinity for progesterone receptors. It inhibits or delays ovulation by suppressing luteinizing hormone (LH) surges, prevents fertilization by altering cervical mucus, and may interfere with endometrial implantation. Its single-dose regimen (1.5 mg) is WHO-recommended for EC, with over 85% efficacy if used within 72 hours.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Norethindrone is a progestin but requires a higher dose (5 mg twice daily for 5 days) for EC and is less commonly used due to side effects.
**Option B:** Ulipristal acetate is a selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM), not a progestin. It is effective up to 120 hours but requires a prescription and is not the "progesterone of choice."
**Option D:** Mifepristone is an antiprogestin used for medical abortion, not EC. It works by blocking progesterone receptors but is not recommended for EC due to regulatory and availability issues.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Levonorgestrel is the gold standard for emergency contraception. Remember the 72-hour window and single-dose convenience. Ulipristal (10