Giving women power over AIDS: PA Campaign for Microbicides

What are microbicides?

A microbicide is a substance that can substantially reduce transmission of sexually transmitted diseases when applied either in the vagina or rectum.

What forms do they come in?

Microbicides can be produced in many forms including gels, creams, suppositories, films, lubricants or in the form of a sponge or vaginal ring that slowly releases the active ingredient.

Where can I get microbicides?

Microbicides are not currently available; however, scientists are testing them for effectiveness. There are over 30 product leads and 10 that have been proven safe and effective on animals. A successful microbicide could be available by the end of the decade.

Why do we need prevention options for women?

In 2005, 57 percent of people living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa were women and girls; the majority had only one mode of exposure to HIV. Women are biologically more vulnerable to infection and consequences. Gender inequalities prevent many women from being able to protect themselves.

How do microbicides put protective power in the hands of women?

Though microbicides do not protect as well as correctly used condoms, they will provide an alternative to those women who are unable to use condoms. Microbicides can be applied without the knowledge of a partner. Research has shown that if even 20 percent of women in 73 lower-income countries used a 60-percent effective microbicide in half the sex acts where condoms aren’t used, 2.5 million HIV infections could be averted over three years.

For more information, contact the PA Campaign for Microbicides at (215) 985-6870 or pamicrobicides@yahoo.com.