USAID awarded CONRAD a five year project with a $2 million ceiling to focus on testing the safety and effectiveness of the SILCS diaphragm, the one-size-fits-most contraceptive barrier, combined with tenofovir gel -- the only topical product proven to prevent the acquisition of HIV and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). If shown to be safe, effective and acceptable, this combination of products would provide women with a non-hormonal contraceptive method under their own control that also delivers protection against HIV and HSV. This award supports Aim 2 of USAID's Biomedical Research for Reproductive Health: to fast track development of reproductive health technologies that can simultaneously prevent unintended pregnancy, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections.
Results of the SILCS diaphragm contraceptive effectiveness study were announced last month and showed effectiveness rates similar to that of a traditional fitted diaphragm. The benefits of this single size diaphragm include eliminating the need for a pelvic exam to fit the diaphragm, and meeting the contraceptive needs of women unable or unwilling to use a hormonal method.
In a recent landmark effectiveness trial conducted by CAPRISA in South Africa, tenofovir gel was shown to reduce the risk of HIV infection by 39% and HSV by 51%. Confirmatory studies of the gel are ongoing and will support regulatory approval.
Dr. Henry Gabelnick, CONRAD's Executive Director said, "We see an urgent need for multipurpose prevention technologies, including non-hormonal methods that are easy to use, and that can be combined with a product that reduces the risk of HIV and HSV infection. This type of reproductive health technology is particularly needed in areas of the world where women need easy to use methods that are within their control."
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