Investigating how hormonal contraceptives affect immune responses and HIV risk
Immunologic changes associated with three progestin-based contraceptives: characterizing immune profiles over one year and identifying factors that may alter HIV risk
This study is looking at how different birth control methods that contain progestin might affect women's immune systems and their risk of getting HIV, and it's for women who are starting hormonal contraception and want to understand how it could impact their health over the next year.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10440378 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how different progestin-based contraceptives may influence immune profiles in women and potentially alter their risk of HIV infection. By recruiting HIV-uninfected women who are starting hormonal contraception, the study will track immune changes over a year, focusing on both systemic and local immune responses. The goal is to identify specific factors, such as bacterial vaginosis, that could impact a woman's risk profile when using these contraceptives. This information aims to improve counseling and decision-making regarding contraceptive options for women, particularly in areas where HIV is prevalent.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-uninfected women who are initiating the use of hormonal contraceptives.
Not a fit: Patients who are already HIV-positive or not using hormonal contraceptives may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-informed contraceptive choices that minimize HIV risk for women.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored the immune effects of hormonal contraceptives, this research aims to provide more comprehensive and comparative data, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Alicia K — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Smith, Alicia K
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.