Non-hormonal vaginal ring to prevent pregnancy and common STIs
Formulation development and testing of a novel non-hormonal intravaginal ring to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections
A new non-hormonal vaginal ring is being developed to provide long-acting contraception and reduce risk of several common sexually transmitted infections for people who want an easy-to-use option.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Population Council NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167701 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project is creating a non-hormonal intravaginal ring that slowly releases agents to both block sperm and fight infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, bacterial vaginosis, HSV-2, and HIV. Researchers at Population Council, Weill Cornell, and Queen's University Belfast will design and manufacture ring formulations, run laboratory and safety tests, and move promising versions toward clinical evaluation. The team aims for a practical, long-acting device that users can insert and forget for extended protection. Work includes laboratory assays, preclinical testing, and preparation for human testing at collaborating sites.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with a vagina and cervix who want long-acting, non-hormonal birth control and who are at risk for or concerned about common STIs.
Not a fit: People who are already pregnant, cannot or prefer not to use intravaginal devices, need hormonal contraception, or have allergies to ring components may not benefit from this product.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the ring could offer a long-acting, non-hormonal contraceptive that also lowers the chance of several common STIs, helping prevent unintended pregnancies and infections.
How similar studies have performed: Existing vaginal rings and multipurpose prevention technologies have shown promise for single-purpose contraception or drug delivery, but combining non-hormonal contraception with broad antibacterial and antiviral protection is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Population Council — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Variano, Bruce F — Population Council
- Study coordinator: Variano, Bruce F
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.