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.
