Semin Reprod Med 2016; 34(03): 159-167
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1571436
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Emerging Technologies to Prevent Pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Women

Authors

  • Dominika Seidman

    1   Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
    2   Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
  • Anke Hemmerling

    1   Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
    2   Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
  • Karen Smith-McCune

    1   Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
08 March 2016 (online)

Abstract

Worldwide, there continues to be a large unmet need for family planning and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention methods. Multipurpose prevention technology (MPT) is a general term encompassing any single prevention methodology targeting more than one STI (including HIV) and/or pregnancy. While innovation has been slow over the past several decades, recent scientific advances have resulted in new products entering clinical trials. This review focuses primarily on multipurpose technologies that are designed to prevent pregnancy and HIV. To examine the current state of MPTs, we outline key discoveries of biologic mechanisms that influence susceptibility of the female genital tract to HIV and STIs, and review the effects of hormonal contraception on HIV susceptibility. We discuss the state of currently available HIV prevention strategies for women, and their interactions with hormonal contraceptive products. Finally, we describe MPTs currently in preclinical and clinical trials and propose ongoing questions requiring research to help advance the field.