Gel is applied to the skin once daily, delivering hormones
A birth control gel that’s applied to the skin once daily, delivering hormones to prevent pregnancy, could be an alternative to the birth control pill, the BBC reports. The Nestrogene gel has been proven effective and well-tolerated in early studies, and without side effects of “the pill,” like weight gain and acne. It could also be used for women who are breastfeeding, unlike some types of the oral contraceptive, they note. The gel can be applied to abdomen, thighs, arms or shoulders; it’s quickly absorbed and leaves no residue. Researchers said they hope to market it if clinical trial results stay positive.