Pronunciation: [mˈɛstɹɐnˌɒl] (IPA) 
Mestranol, a synthetic estrogen commonly used in combined oral contraceptives, is pronounced /mɛstrəˈnɔːl/. It is spelled with an "m" at the beginning, followed by "e" and "s" which create the /ɛs/ sound. Then "t" and "r" create the /tr/ sound, followed by "a" and "n" which create the /æn/ sound, and finally "o" and "l" create the /ɔl/ sound. The emphasis is placed on the second syllable, with a secondary emphasis on the first.
Mestranol is a synthetic estrogen compound that is commonly used in combination with a progestin hormone to prevent pregnancy or regulate the menstrual cycle. It is an orally active estrogen that is structurally related to ethinyl estradiol, another commonly used estrogen in birth control pills.
As a steroidal estrogen, mestranol binds to estrogen receptors in target tissues throughout the body, including the uterus, ovaries, and breasts. By interacting with these receptors, mestranol helps establish a hormonal balance which regulates the menstrual cycle and prevents ovulation.
Mestranol is typically administered orally in the form of birth control pills, often in combination with a progestin hormone. By combining mestranol with a progestin, also known as a synthetic progesterone, the effectiveness of birth control is increased. This combination inhibits the release of eggs from the ovaries, thickens cervical mucus to impede sperm mobility, and alters the lining of the uterus, making it less hospitable for implantation of a fertilized egg.
While mestranol is primarily used as a contraceptive, it may also be prescribed to treat certain menstrual irregularities, such as heavy or painful periods. In some cases, it may be used to manage symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
However, it is important to note that mestranol, like all medications, may have potential side effects. These can include nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, and mood changes, among others. Additionally, it is not suitable for everyone, and those with certain medical conditions or risk factors should consult their healthcare provider before using mestranol-containing products.
