International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

The world's first natural contraceptive pill has been launched, which promises to reduce the side effects associated with the current hormone therapy.

According to the drugs manufacturers, the new hormone could reduce the incidence of headaches, mood swings, and blood clots, which put many women off using the birth control medication.

The drug also claims to offer women shorter and less painful periods.

Qlaira, which has been tested on almost 3,000 women, uses a type of oestrogen identical to that found in the human body.

For the past 50 years the pill has contained a synthetic hormone.

Almost a third of British women use the contraceptive pill, but 75 per cent claim they would prefer a more natural alternative.

Last night women's health expert Dr Annie Evans said: "For modern women, efficacy is not the only goal.

"An improvement in their quality of life is also important."

In related news, legislators in Honduras have continued to uphold the ban on emergency contraception for women.