Despite the increased use of modern contraception globally over the past 50 years, approximately 48% of all pregnancies are unintended and more than 218 million women in low- and middle-income countries still have unmet need for modern contraception. HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are global health crises, with over 1 million people contracting a new STI every day and 1.5 million people newly infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) every year. Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is an incurable sexually transmitted infection that affects over 491 million people worldwide, 64% of whom are women. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract, with most sexually active people infected at some point in their lives. New, innovative HIV and STI prevention methods and expanded contraceptive options are urgently needed to help meet these pressing and overlapping health needs.
Scientists at the Population Council Center for Biomedical Research are committed to identifying new drugs and delivery systems, conducting preclinical studies and late-stage clinical trials, and working with regulatory authorities to bring new technologies to the market. With a proven track record and seven FDA-approved products, our vision is to continue to innovate and improve reproductive health by creating new contraceptive and multi-purpose prevention technologies that expand user control, enhance safety and choice, and provide secondary benefits.
We develop our products in conjunction with the Population Council’s social and behavioral scientists all over the world. Colleagues help to ensure that the end-user perspective is incorporated into our product design throughout the development process. Our products are rigorously tested and evaluated and submitted to stringent regulatory authorities for review and approval.
Contraceptive Products in Development
Nestorone®/Estradiol Vaginal Ring
This ring is designed to have fewer side effects compared to ethinyl estradiol products currently on the market
Nestorone®-only Vaginal Ring
This ring will serve as an option for those with estrogen sensitivities, those who are at higher risk of VTE, and postpartum breastfeeding mothers.
Male Contraception
Nestorone®/Testosterone gel that will be a novel reversible contraceptive that would be the first-of-its-kind contraceptive option for men.
Multipurpose Prevention Technologies in Development
Intravaginal Ring Containing Etonogestrel, Ethinyl Estradiol, and QGriffithsin (EEQ IVR)
A vaginal ring for the prevention of pregnancy and HIV
Dual Prevention Pill
Dual Prevention Pill for the prevention of HIV and unintended pregnancy
Non-hormonal Vaginal Ring
A user-controlled, multipurpose prevention, non-hormonal intravaginal ring that will provide contraception and protection against sexually transmitted infections
Fast-dissolving insert (FDI)
A self-administered, nonhormonal contraceptive fast-dissolving insert (FDI) for on-demand prevention of pregnancy, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections.
The Dapivirine-Levonorgestrel Vaginal Ring for HIV Prevention and Contraception
A user-controlled dual purpose vaginal ring that can prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of HIV.
Novel HIV Prevention Technologies in Development
The Three-Month Dapivirine Vaginal Ring for HIV Prevention
A three-month dapivirine vaginal ring as a line-extension of the monthly dapivirine vaginal ring.
Additional Products in Development
- Nestorone for Multiple Sclerosis. A Nestorone® formulation to treat multiple sclerosis (MS), reduce symptoms, and delay disease progression.