A new vaginal ring to prevent genital herpes and unintended pregnancy

A Novel, Multi-compartment Intravaginal Ring for Prevention of Genital Herpes and Unintended Pregnancy

NIH-funded research Oak Crest Institute of Science · NIH-10979614

This study is testing a new intravaginal ring that helps protect against genital herpes, HPV, and HIV, while also acting as a birth control method, giving women a convenient way to take charge of their sexual health without needing to use it right before or after sex.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOak Crest Institute of Science NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Monrovia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10979614 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel intravaginal ring that can simultaneously prevent genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), while also serving as a contraceptive method. The approach involves creating a multipurpose technology that combines antiviral peptides and small-molecule inhibitors to enhance effectiveness and user compliance. The ring is designed for long-term use, allowing for controlled delivery of the medication without the need for immediate application before or after sexual intercourse. This innovative method aims to empower women with a user-controlled option for sexual health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are sexually active women who are at risk of genital herpes and are seeking effective contraceptive options.

Not a fit: Patients who are not sexually active or those who do not have a risk of genital herpes or unintended pregnancies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide women with an effective, convenient method to prevent both sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing multipurpose products for sexual health, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Monrovia, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.