Finally, a New Barrier Method Contraception Is on the Horizon
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By Martha Kempner - Rewire News Group
February 11, 2020
“Intrauterine devices (IUDs) were used by 12 percent of contraceptive users. Around since the early 1900s, IUDs were once among the most popular methods of contraception. In the 1970s, there were 17 models of IUDs under development by 15 different pharmaceutical companies. One model, the Dalkon Shield, had serious design flaws that resulted in a higher failure rate, infections, and at least 18 deaths. After that, usage rates plummeted and IUDs nearly disappeared from the U.S. market.
A modern era of IUDs began with the approval of Paragard in 1988 and Mirena in 2000. There are now five designs on the market. With the exception of Paragard (also called the Copper-T), all of them contain hormones and prevent pregnancy by inhibiting the movement of sperm toward the egg. Those that contain hormones thicken cervical mucus, thin the uterine lining, and may prevent ovulation.
Much of this innovation in contraceptives ignores people who either shouldn’t or choose not to use hormonal methods. People with high blood pressure and cigarette smokers are warned against using birth control pills that contain both estrogen and progestin, for example, because of the increased risk of blood clots. Patients with a history of breast or uterine cancer may be told to avoid some IUDs. Some health-care providers recommend that women with diabetes, heart conditions, or a history of migraines avoid certain hormonal methods.
Some do not want to affect their menstrual cycle or have had a history of unpleasant side effects with hormonal birth control.
People who don’t use hormonal methods are left to choose between the current barrier methods, copper IUDs, sterilization, natural family planning, or abstinence. Ovaprene could be a welcome addition to the market for many.”
