The Centchroman (Saheli / Chhaya) contraceptive pill is unique because:
- A It is a combined oral contraceptive with the lowest dose of ethinyl oestradiol available
- B It is a progestogen-only pill taken daily with no hormone-free interval
- C It is an orally active non-steroidal antioestrogenic contraceptive with weekly dosing ✓
- D It is a selective oestrogen receptor modulator used primarily for emergency contraception
Correct answer: C. It is an orally active non-steroidal antioestrogenic contraceptive with weekly dosing
Explanation
Centchroman (Ormeloxifene — brand name Saheli) is a NON-STEROIDAL selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) developed in India (CDRI, Lucknow). Its unique properties: weekly dosing (once weekly for first 3 months, then fortnightly), non-hormonal steroidal structure, no effect on hypothalamic-pituitary axis, no thrombotic or estrogenic side effects. Mechanism: prevents implantation by causing asynchrony between ovum transport and endometrial development. Pearl Index ≈ 1.6 per 100 WY. It is NOT a combined OCP or progesterone-only pill.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.