The major milestone in physiology, chemistry and pharmacology which eventually resulted in the birth in steroidal contraception are discussed in the light of certain cultural, social and political changes, which have taken place over the past twenty years. The needs of some developing countries for a variety of improved, safe and inexpensive fertility regulating agents are considered against the background of the dramatically increased costs for the development of new fertility regulating drugs. It is suggested that an increased collaboration between the Pharmaceutical Industry and an International Public Sector Agency, such as the World Health Organization, might provide a suitable framework for the future development of new fertility regulating agents.