Investigating safe contraception options for people with sickle cell disease
Official title: Hormonal contraception choice and safety among people with sickle cell disease
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11126106 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how safe different hormonal birth control methods are for women with sickle cell disease, so they can make informed choices about their options and get better support from their healthcare providers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $234,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R56HD113703-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126106 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with sickle cell disease, particularly women of reproductive age.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without sickle cell disease or those not seeking contraceptive options may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the safety of hormonal contraception methods, such as estrogen-containing and progestin-only options, specifically for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). Given that people with SCD are at a higher risk for complications like venous thromboembolism and stroke, the study aims to fill a critical knowledge gap regarding contraceptive safety in this population. By evaluating both patient and provider perspectives, the research seeks to improve contraceptive counseling and access for those affected by SCD, particularly women. The study will involve assessing various factors that influence contraceptive choices and usage among patients with SCD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer contraceptive options and improved reproductive health for individuals with sickle cell disease.
How similar studies have gone: While there is existing research on contraceptive safety in the general population, this specific focus on sickle cell disease is novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Howards, Penelope P. — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Howards, Penelope P.
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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.