Contraceptive technology innovation

In 1971, the founders of the International Fertility Research Program (now FHI 360) committed to evaluating contraceptive technologies for use in developing countries. Earliest efforts focused on field trial evaluations of intrauterine devices, oral contraceptives, permanent surgical contraception and female barrier methods. Since then, FHI 360 researchers have conducted hundreds of clinical trials and research studies to assess the safety, efficacy and acceptability of most contraceptives marketed today. Our efforts have contributed to the introduction of more than 10 contraceptive products in more than 30 countries.

Anchored by two major research awards, the Contraceptive Technology Innovation Initiative and Envision FP, our current portfolio spans multiple stages of contraceptive product development. Technologies being developed or evaluated are implants, including biodegradable options; intrauterine devices; injectables, including longer acting or lower dose formulations; microneedle patches as a contraceptive delivery platform; and nonsurgical permanent contraception. Through the Sino-implant (II) initiative, we also facilitate the global introduction of affordable, high-quality implants, increasing their access in resource-limited settings.

Our work is informed by social and behavioral research on acceptability of new or refined methods, health services research on ways to reduce barriers to family planning service delivery, and quality assurance testing of contraceptive commodities procured for the field.

FHI 360 scientists are committed to sharing findings with stakeholders globally, including colleagues in other fields whose research could stimulate innovative breakthroughs in contraceptive development. Online resources currently maintained by FHI 360 are:

The Contraceptive Technology Innovation (CTI) Exchange, a website for increasing access to resources on contraceptive research, development, registration and introduction through knowledge sharing and collaboration
Calliope, the Contraceptive Pipeline Database, which summarizes information on more than 190 contraceptive products at various development stages or available only in limited markets