New contraceptive is first of its type in half a century
EVMS researchers had a role in development of the new non-hormonal contraceptive known as Caya.
The contoured diaphragm is the first new design to enter the U.S. market in more than 50 years, according to Gustavo Doncel, MD, PhD, scientific and executive director of CONRAD, a program of EVMS Obstetrics and Gynecology. The single-size diaphragm has few side effect and can be used for up to two years.
CONRAD conducted multiple clinical trials that demonstrated the safety, acceptability and effectiveness. Caya differs from traditional diaphragms in its single-size, construction of contoured nylon spring and it use of a silicone cup.
“Clinical studies confirm the single-size design fits most women who could wear a traditional diaphragm,” Dr. Doncel says. “In the recently published contraceptive effectiveness study, 76 percent of women were able to insert and correctly position the diaphragm simply using instructions. With coaching, 94 percent of women were able to insert, correctly position, and remove the diaphragm. This should make it easier to provide and use consistently.”
Caya is a product of PATH, an international non-profit health organization.
Caya has been available since 2013 in Europe, Canada, Malaysia and Australia. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the diaphragm last fall for marketing in the U.S. Caya is available by prescription.