Title: New FDA-approved woman-controlled, latex-free barrier contraceptive device “FemCap”
Abstract: Objectives: To provide a woman-controlled vaginal barrier contraceptive device that not only prevents pregnancy, but also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Methods: The FemCap is designed to cover and protect the cervix completely—the portal of entry for sperm, bacteria and viruses—and the site of chemokine coreceptors for the HIV virus (CCR-5 and CXCR-4). The FemCap is an FDA-approved cervical barrier device that is designed with a unique delivery system that stores and delivers any microbicide on the vaginal side. This ensures immediate contact of the microbicide with invading microorganisms and the HIV virus. Results: Many microbicides, even soap and water, lemon juice, and Nonoxynol-9, can destroy the fragile HIV virus in the lab; none have proven yet to be effective in the vagina. In fact, Nonoxynol-9 increases HIV transmission if applied over the cervix. This is due to the disruption of the microbicides to the fragile columnar cervical and uterine epithelium. Conclusion: To minimize the transmission of STIs/HIV it is critical to use a mechanical cervical barrier with a microbicide reservoir on the vaginal side such as the FemCap. This ensures immediate contact of the microbicide with the HIV virus upon deposition into the vagina.
Publication Year: 2004
Publication Date: 2004-09-01
Language: en
Type: article
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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Cited By Count: 13
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