Contraception Research Branch (CRB)

Effects of Contraception on Human Health

Gap: Contraceptives are used throughout the world yet much remains to be learned about their effects on human health. Research and training topics of interest include the following:

• Effects of contraceptive methods on susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases
• Effects of female contraceptives on the vaginal microbiome

Priority: Research the effects of specific contraceptive methods on human health.

New and Improved Methods of Contraception

Gap: New and improved contraceptive methods are needed for populations that lack adequate choices. New methods of interest include the following:

• Non-steroidal methods
• On-demand methods
• Multipurpose prevention technologies (i.e., those that simultaneously protect against sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy)

Gap: Development of new and improved methods of contraception will require research focused on:

• Identifying and validating novel contraceptive drug targets required for fertility that can be targeted using non-steroidal methods, such as:
  • Global identification of reproductive-tract-specific genes and proteins
  • Identification of novel contraceptive targets in spermatogonia
• Understanding how therapeutics cross the blood-testis and/or blood-epidydimal barriers
• Developing improved devices and delivery systems
• Developing methods and model systems to facilitate target validation, such as validating targets through evaluating fertility of genetically modified animal models with partial target inhibition

Priority: Support research and research training to promote development of new and improved methods of contraception, especially non-steroidal methods for both men and women.

• Contraception Research and Development: Promotes contraceptive research and development and research training for preventing or reducing unintended pregnancies
• Contraceptive Development Research Center Program (CDRCP): Focuses the efforts of individual research centers on developing new contraceptive products for men and women
• Preclinical Contraceptive Development Program (PCDP): Aims to expand research leading to the development of male and female contraception
• Chemical Screening and Optimization Facility (CSOF): Supports discovery, development, and optimization of male and female contraceptive agents
• Biological Testing Facility (BTF): Supports biologic studies for preclinical compound and device development and advancement

• Food and Drug Administration Birth Control Guide: Provides information to help you make decisions about your sexual and reproductive health
• U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2016: Includes recommendations for using specific contraceptive methods by women and men who have certain characteristics or medical conditions

• Daniel S. Johnston, Ph.D., Branch Chief
  Main Research Areas: Contraceptive development and evaluation, investigator-initiated research grants, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards
• Steven C. Kaufman, M.D., Medical Officer
  Main Research Areas: Investigator-initiated research grants, NICHD loan repayment programs, SBIR awards
• Christopher C. Lindsey, Ph.D. Program Officer
  Main Research Areas: Contraception product development, medicinal chemistry
• David H. Weinberg, Ph.D., Program Officer
  Main Research Areas: Contraceptive product development, Human Placenta Project