Large doses of estrogens employed for postcoital contraception have definitely been shown to be effective, but estrogens used in such high doses would result in a high incidence of side-effects. Therefore this method should be reserved for the occasional emergency. Postcoital estrogen-progestogen-combination is suitable for women exposed to an isolated act of intercourse in midcycle. The advantage of this method is the possibility of a delayed administration after intercourse. Progestogens alone can be used after each coital exposure. One of the most frequent problems is the alteration of the menstrual pattern. Continued use can be recommended for women with occasional intercourse in cycle. Possible mechanisms of action of steroidal postcoital contraceptives are discussed involving problems of this contraceptive method.