A new device that releases progesterone to help prevent early births in at-risk women

A novel intravaginal ring technology featuring the sustained release of natural progesterone for the prevention of preterm birth in at-risk women

NIH-funded research Dare Bioscience, INC. · NIH-11000385

This study is testing a new vaginal ring that slowly releases natural progesterone to help prevent early births in women who are at risk, making it easier for them to get the treatment they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDare Bioscience, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11000385 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel intravaginal ring that provides a sustained release of natural progesterone to help prevent preterm birth in women identified as at risk. The device, known as DARE-FRT1, aims to deliver a consistent level of progesterone directly to the cervix, which is crucial for regulating factors associated with labor. By improving the delivery method of progesterone, the research seeks to enhance treatment efficacy and ease of use for women who have previously experienced premature births or have a short cervix. The study builds on promising preclinical findings that demonstrate the device's ability to release progesterone over an extended period.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have had a previous preterm birth or those diagnosed with a short cervix during mid-pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without a history of preterm birth or a short cervix may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of preterm births and associated health complications for at-risk women.

How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches using sustained-release hormone delivery systems have shown promise in other areas of reproductive health, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.