- New device designs
- New materials
- New delivery systems
- Microbicides and spermicides
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New barrier contraceptives are in various stages of development.
Some may be available in the near future. The new types fall
into four groups: new device designs, new materials, new delivery
systems, and microbicides and spermicides.
New device designs. The Femcap
is a new device similar to a cervical cap. It is made of silicone
rubber and can be worn for 48 hours. It may be effective without
spermicides. Human safety and efficacy trials are in progress.
Lea’s shield is a diaphragm-like device made of silicone
rubber. It comes in one size and does not need to be fitted
by a provider. It has a loop for easy removal and a one-way
valve to allow passage of cervical secretions. It can be worn
for 48 hours. Early clinical trials have been completed.
Several new designs of the male plastic condom and the female
condom are under development. These include a new looser fitting
male plastic condom, a “bikini” female condom, which
is worn like underwear, and a female condom that is inserted
with an applicator.
New materials. A silicone rubber
diaphragm has been developed, in contrast to the standard latex
device. Women can wear it continuously, with applications of
spermicide before sexual intercourse. It is taken out for cleaning
and during menstrual periods. Study of its effectiveness and
acceptability are under way.
New delivery systems. Preliminary
research has been done on a vaginal ring made of silicone, which
releases N-9 spermicide at a constant rate for at least 30 days.
Microbicides and spermicides. Various
substances are under study for their effectiveness and acceptability
as microbicides, which would protect against STDs but allow
pregnancy. Other new spermicides are under development that
would kill sperm but be less irritating to the vagina.
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