title: Addressing gaps in the contraceptive method mix: methods in development.
abstract: Despite the availability of a variety of contraceptive methods, millions of women still have an unmet need for contraceptive choices. Short-acting methods are plagued by issues with adherence, leading to imperfect or inconsistent use and subsequent unintended pregnancy. Long-acting contraceptive methods such as intrauterine devices and contraceptive implants, while providing highly effective and safe contraception, do not meet the needs of all women, often due to cost, access or acceptability issues. Several new methods are in various stages of development and are designed to address the shortcomings of current methods. Providers should be aware of these future options and how they might better meet women's needs.
authors.affiliation: Contraceptive Technology Innovation Department, Global Health, Population & Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA.
authors.forename: Kavita
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Nanda
authors.affiliation: Contraceptive Technology Innovation Department, Global Health, Population & Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA.
authors.forename: Rebecca
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Callahan
authors.affiliation: Contraceptive Technology Innovation Department, Global Health, Population & Nutrition, FHI 360, Durham, NC, USA.
authors.forename: Laneta
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Dorflinger
mesh_terms: D003267:Contraception; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D049168:Pregnancy, Unplanned; D016387:Women's Health
keywords: contraception; contraceptive implant; contraceptive vaginal ring; injectable contraception; intrauterine device; long-acting reversible contraceptive; multipurpose prevention technology