The IMPT offices are always a buzz with activity during the months of November and December. Giving Tuesday, World AIDS Day, as well as general end-of-the year wrap ups—it is a reminder that for organizations like ours, this time of year is a time for increased activism, awareness, and reflection. This year, as the IMPT celebrates a decade of progress in the MPT field, we recognize both forward progress and future goals as we continually work to bring MPTs closer to a reality that will improve the lives of women and girls worldwide.

In 1960, FDA approval of the first hormonal contraceptive—more commonly known as “the pill”—revolutionized sexual and reproductive health, giving women unprecedented control over their fertility for the first time in history. Today, there are a range of contraceptive products available to women across the globe. Of the over 30 MPTs in the product development pipeline, 18 have a contraceptive component combined with protection against select sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, herpes simplex virus (HSV), and chlamydia. Still, women around the world need more choices. As a woman’s needs change and evolve over her lifespan, having a suite of product options for protection against unplanned pregnancy, HIV, and other STIs remains critical.

Male Contraceptive Initiative (MCI) and the Initiative for Multipurpose Prevention Technologies (IMPT) share similar missions and challenges—as well as some product overlap. Both organizations understand the importance of innovative, impactful products for men, women, their families, and the world.