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The FemCap: a new contraceptive choice
1Scripps Institute of Medicine and Science, Del Mar, CA 92014, USA.
Summary
A new female barrier contraceptive, FemCap, offers dual protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Clinical trials show it is safe, effective, and highly acceptable for women and their partners.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Infectious Disease Prevention
- Medical Device Development
Background:
- Existing contraceptive methods often lack protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
- There is a need for safe and effective female-controlled barrier methods for both contraception and STD prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel female barrier contraceptive device.
- To assess its efficacy in preventing pregnancy and protecting against STDs.
Main Methods:
- The contraceptive, FemCap, is an anatomically designed barrier made of inert material.
- It utilizes vaginal physiology and incorporates a microbicidal spermicide to eliminate STD pathogens.
Main Results:
- FemCap demonstrated safety in clinical trials with no systemic or local side effects.
- Pregnancy prevention rates were 86.5% in typical use and 98% with proper use and backup emergency contraception.
- The device showed high acceptability among users and their partners.
Conclusions:
- FemCap represents a new birth control option that is safe, effective, and highly acceptable.
- It offers potential protection against STDs affecting the upper female genital tract.