Novel delivery systems in contraception

Contraception has mainly remained the responsibility of women. The sexually active time during the fertile period of life may last over 30 years and, increasingly, it is more than 10 years before the first baby. It is, therefore, natural that convenient long-acting contraceptive methods are becoming more and more appealing. The discovery of poly(dimethylsiloxane) as a carrier, and controlled release polymers for small molecule drugs allowed the development of contraceptive devices releasing steroids for several years. While contraceptive implants and intra-uterine systems are already marketed in many countries, contraceptive vaginal rings are in their late development phase. The key features of these long acting delivery systems are convenience, efficacy, reversibility and positive long-term health effects. Since these methods are based on new concepts, the provider needs to be prepared for extensive counselling.