Conception, contraception and misconception.

: Because of Dr. G. A. Overbeek's interest and contributions in the field of oral contraception a survey is given of present leads and developments in this area. It is concluded that contraceptive preparations known under names such as: once-a-month pill, morning-after pill and post-coitum pill, although desired, do not really exist at the moment. It is further expected that oral contraception based on the inhibition of ovulation will stay with us for many years to come. Better preparations, not exclusively containing oestrogen progestagen combinations but possibly including a non-hormonal pituitary inhibitor as well, might be developed. This will allow better control over the endometrium, and the unwanted effects of the presently used hormonal substances. It is likely that an implantation-inhibiting compound or an abortifacient which acts shortly after implantation will be found. With respect to oral contraception for males it is concluded that, although inhibition of spermatogenesis with drugs is possible, a satisfactory contraceptive treatment for men is not yet available.