Development of a non-hormonal vaginal product to prevent pregnancy and STIs
Official title: Novel pre-coital, non-hormonal multipurpose prevention technology (MPT)
Funded at Population Council · NIH-10772045 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new gel called Amphora that helps women prevent both pregnancy and STIs without hormones, making it a great option for those who can't or don't want to use hormonal birth control, like breastfeeding moms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Population Council NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | March 20, 2020 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $743,796 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI150324-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10772045 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women, particularly adolescents and breastfeeding mothers, who are seeking non-hormonal contraceptive options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not female or those who are not interested in contraception or STI prevention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a multipurpose prevention technology (MPT) that helps women prevent both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) without using hormones. The product, Amphora gel, works by maintaining a low vaginal pH that is hostile to sperm, bacteria, and viruses. It is designed for women who cannot or prefer not to use hormonal contraceptives, including breastfeeding mothers. The research includes ongoing trials to assess its effectiveness against infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide women with a safe and effective non-hormonal option for preventing both pregnancy and STIs.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise with similar non-hormonal approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Population Council
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Angsantikul, Pavimol — Population Council
- Study coordinator: Angsantikul, Pavimol
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.