Mechanism of Action of Desogestrel Desogestrel is a third generation progestins which is used as a female contraceptive. Desogestrel is generally used in combination with Ethinyl estradiol. Desogestrel is a potent inhibitor of ovulation. It binds to the Progesterone receptor situated in the female reproductive tract, the mammary gland, the hypothalamus, and the pituitary. Once bound to the receptor, Desogestrel will slow the frequency of release of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus and blunt the pre-ovulatory LH (luteinizing hormone) surge.