A device for women to use on-demand contraception without hormones
Multipurpose Device for Female-initiated Nonsteroidal On-Demand Contraception
This study is testing a new, hormone-free contraceptive device that women can use on their own, which works by becoming thicker when it touches semen to help prevent pregnancy, offering a safe and easy option for birth control.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Louis College of Pharmacy NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (St. Louis, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11063385 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative contraceptive device that women can initiate themselves, which does not rely on hormones. The device uses a unique bioresponsive polymer that increases in viscosity when it comes into contact with semen, effectively preventing pregnancy. The approach aims to provide a safer and more socially acceptable alternative to traditional contraceptive methods. By utilizing a dual-compartment vaginal device, the research seeks to empower women with a non-pharmacological option for contraception that can be deployed as needed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women seeking non-hormonal contraceptive options.
Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in contraception or who require hormonal contraceptive methods may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide women with a safe, effective, and hormone-free method of contraception.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar bioengineering strategies in contraceptive technology have shown promise, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
St. Louis, UNITED STATES
- St. Louis College of Pharmacy — St. Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pauletti, Giovanni M — St. Louis College of Pharmacy
- Study coordinator: Pauletti, Giovanni M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.