A woman-controlled, nonhormonal on-demand contraceptive device
Multipurpose Device for Female-initiated Nonsteroidal On-Demand Contraception
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · ST. LOUIS COLLEGE OF PHARMACY · NIH-11478955
This project is creating a woman-controlled vaginal device that releases a fabric-like polymer which thickens on contact with semen to help prevent pregnancy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ST. LOUIS COLLEGE OF PHARMACY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (St. Louis, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11478955 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would use a small dual-compartment vaginal device that places a thin, fabric-like polymer mat at the cervicovaginal junction when needed. The polymer is drug-free and is designed to become much thicker and stickier only after contact with semen, forming a physical barrier to sperm. The team plans to develop and test the device through lab and animal studies with the goal of moving to human testing under medical-device regulations. The approach aims to offer an on-demand option that avoids hormones and systemic exposure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who can become pregnant and want a nonhormonal, on-demand contraceptive option and who are comfortable using an intravaginal device would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: This approach may not help people who cannot or prefer not to use intravaginal devices, who need continuous hormonal contraception, who are allergic to device materials, or who seek protection against sexually transmitted infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could offer a hormone-free, woman-controlled way to prevent pregnancy without systemic side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Early laboratory and animal studies of bioresponsive polymers show promising thickening on contact with semen, but human testing of this specific device approach is novel.
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.