Abstract: A three-phase method of human female contraception wherein (1) starting on about the ninth to about the twelfth day of the female cycle (first cycle day being first menstruation day) an effective amount of at least one progestagenic substance is administered in daily or shorter intervals for about three to about six days followed at substantially similar intervals by (2) administration for about one to about three days starting from about the fourth to about the seventh day after the first phase of both an effective amount of the progestagenic substance(s), and a peptide possessing LHRF (Luteinizing Hormone Release Factor) activity, followed by (3) administration of an effective amount of the progestagenic substance(s) until the total time of the progestagenic substance administration with and without the LHRF compound is from about seven to about fifteen days.

Abstract: The invention relates to novel 7-substituted-steroids of the oestrane series of the general formula: ##SPC1##In whichRing A including carbon atom 6 is ##SPC2##R.sub.1 = an alkyl group with 1-4 C-atoms,R.sub.2 = oxygen or (.alpha.Y)(.beta.Z), in which Y = hydrogen or a saturated or unsaturated alkyl group with 1-4 C-atoms and Z = a free, esterified or etherified hydroxyl group,R.sub.3 = hydrogen or a free or esterified hydroxyl group,R.sub.4 = an alkylene- or alkylidene group with 1-3 C-atoms,R.sub.5 = hydrogen or a free, esterified or etherified hydroxyl group,R.sub.6 = H.sub.2, O, H(OH), H(Oalkyl) or H(Oacyl),X = H, an acyl group or an alkyl-, aralkyl-, cycloalkyl- or heterocyclic alkyl group, andA double bond is present starting from carbon atom 5, and to processes for their preparation.These novel steroids possess anabolic, androgenic, oestrogenic, progestative, ovulation-inhibiting and gonad-inhibiting properties.