---

Female contraceptive

The primary purpose of most contraceptive products is the prevention of pregnancy. This goal has been accomplished by a variety of means such as providing a physical barrier to prevent contact between sperm cells and ova; altering the estrogen levels of the female with oral contraceptives so as to prevent the female from conceiving; and surgical sterilization procedures. Various types of contraceptive and prophylactic devices have been developed in the prior art for the purpose of preventing the exchange of body fluids between partners during sexual intercourse. The five basic types of female contraceptives now on the market are the diaphragm, the contraceptive pill, containing estrogen or progesterone, contraceptive foaming agents, cervical caps and intra-uterine devices. The most common type of female contraceptive is the diaphragm. A diaphragm is a device usually made of thin, flexible material which is placed in the vaginal vault for blocking the entrance to the cervix in order to prevent impregnation during sexual intercourse. Generally, such diaphragms comprise a loose hanging pouch made of an elastomeric material such as rubber formed with an integral, heavy, resilient rim intended to engage the walls of the vaginal vault. Because of the AIDS epidemic, the use of such devices to provide so-called "safe sex" has become of supreme importance to the public, and many efforts have been made to provide improved forms of protection. Male condoms are the most common form of device to prevent conception as well as the sexual transmission of disease. However, many men are reluctant to use male condoms because of reduced sexual sensation. Female condoms have also been developed so that women can protect themselves and ensure that they are not at risk during sexual intercourse. The vast majority of oral contraceptives consist of a combination of a progestin and estrogen that are administered concurrently for 21 days followed either by a 7 day pill free interval or by the administration of a placebo for 7 days in each 28 day cycle. The most important aspects of a successful oral contraceptive product are effective contraception, good cycle control, and minimal side effects.

---