Contraceptive Technology Update 2004-03-01

Lower-dose injectable contraceptive moves through research pipeline

As you check the chart of your next patient, you note she is scheduled for her quarterly injection of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA, Depo-Provera; Pfizer, New York City). While she is on time for this shot, she was late for two such appointments in the previous year. What if there was a contraceptive injection that your patients could be instructed to use in self-injection?

FDA panel gives nod to adding folic acid to OC

A pill designed to prevent unintended pregnancy and birth defects is moving closer to commercial reality following a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory committees unanimous vote to back such a combination product.

Spray-on birth control: New application eyed

Women now rely on contraception in such new forms as a transdermal patch and a vaginal ring. In fact, about 75% of readers participating in the 2003 Contraceptive Technology Update Contraception Survey say their facilities are offering these birth control options. What if women could get reliable birth control from a spray-on application to the skin?

Research eyes rapid testing of chlamydia

You have just examined a young woman who reports she has had recent multiple sexual partners and says she has used irregular protection against sexually transmitted disease (STD). You order lab tests, including a screen for chlamydia. When positive results return the next day, will she come back for treatment?

Ask the Experts: Answers to questions on IUS use, OC interactions

Can women who are breast-feeding use a levonorgestrel intrauterine system? What is the impact of fluconazole (Diflucan, Pfizer; New York City), an oral medication used to treat vaginal yeast infections, on oral contraceptive (OC) efficacy?

Washington Watch: Title X notice reflects new program priorities

In July 2003, the Office of Population Affairs (OPA) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services formally requested applications for $49 million for family planning service delivery under the Title X program for FY 2004. The announcement contains a number of new program priorities that will affect the delivery of subsidized family planning services for millions of low-income women and teens in the years to come.

Contraceptive Technology Update – March 1, 2004

March 1, 2004