HIV/STI Prevention

WOMEN-CONTROLLED HIV/STI PREVENTION

Microbicides: Life-Saving Technology

HIV/AIDS has impacted the African American community in epidemic proportions. It is the top killer of African American women and men ages 25 to 44. Black women represent an overwhelming majority of HIV/AIDS cases, with three out of four HIV/AIDS cases being women of color.

In addition to shouldering the burden of HIV/AIDS, Black women are also disproportionately impacted by unintended pregnancy. The economic hardships and emotional stress that are often associated with an untimely pregnancy can impose significant burdens on women and their families. While unintended pregnancies affect women of all reproductive ages, socioeconomic and marital status, and all racial and ethnic groups, they are most likely to occur to women with the least amount of resources to handle them.

Women must be empowered through alternative technologies and resources, to be able to protect themselves from disease and intended pregnancy. Women need effective prevention methods that can offer both. This potential new technology is microbicides. While no such product is currently available, efforts are underway to develop this new, female-controlled method.

Facts About Microbicide Development

	A microbicide is any substance that can substantially reduce transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV when applied in either the vagina or the rectum.
	Microbicides could be produced in various forms, including gels, creams, films, suppositories or vaginal rings that slowly release the active ingredient over time.
	Microbicides as a form of contraception will give women greater control of their fertility and increased alternatives and options for pregnancy prevention.
	While potentially less effective than the condom, microbicides will give women who may not have the cooperation from a male partner, increased opportunities for disease and pregnancy prevention.

Important Considerations

	Women are largely dependent on their male partners’ willingness to use condoms in order to protect themselves from contracting STIs and HIV.
	For many Black women, psychological distress, domestic violence, substance abuse, sexual abuse, poverty and limited access to health care information and services can result in increased risks for diseases and unintended pregnancy.