| Abstract: | The Population Council is currently conducting 4 clinical trials of the vaginal contraceptive ring. This device remains in the vagina for weeks or months, releasing hormone formulations tailored for a variety of contraceptive needs. Rings that deliver both estrogen and progesterone can be kept in place for 3 weeks, then removed for the last week of the cycle. Since the steroids diffuse directly from vaginal tissues to the bloodstream, smaller steroid doses can be used than for oral contraceptives (OCs). In contrast to IUDs, which require insertion and removal by medical providers, women can be taught to insert and remove the flexible device themselves. One of the rings being evaluated by the Population Council is suitable for breast feeding women. It does not contain estrogen and appears to have no adverse effect on either lactation or infant growth. Preliminary findings have confirmed the effectiveness of a ring that remains in place 6-12 months. Advantageous for distribution in developing countries would be a contraceptive ring that lasts for 12 months and could be priced competitively with OCs. In addition to contraception, the ring can be used by postmenopausal women for hormone replacement treatment. |
