Question

Third generation oral contraceptive pills containing norgestrel and gestodene along with estrogens

• A. Are more lipid friendly
• B. Decrease the risk of venous thromboembolism
• C. Increase the risk of break through bleeding
• D. Are not used for emergency contraception

Hint:

Less androgenic progestins improve the lipid profile but slightly raise clot risk.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks us to pick the correct property of third generation progestins used in combined oral contraceptive pills.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Third generation progestins are less androgenic than the older second generation progestins, and this lower androgenic activity changes their effect on lipids and on clotting risk.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Because these newer progestins are less androgenic, they have a more favourable effect on the lipid profile, raising HDL and improving the overall cholesterol picture, so they are described as more lipid friendly.
Despite this better lipid effect, several studies have shown a slightly higher, not lower, risk of venous thromboembolism with third generation progestins compared to second generation ones, so option (B) is incorrect.
Breakthrough bleeding is more often a problem with progestin-only or very low dose pills rather than a defining feature of this third generation group, so option (C) does not fit as the best answer.
Third generation pills can in fact be used for emergency contraception in some regimens, so saying they are "not used" for it is incorrect.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Third generation pills are more lipid friendly, option (A).