Resources

The SILCS single-size diaphragm was designed to expand women’s options for nonhormonal contraception. The SILCS diaphragm is also being assessed as a low-cost, reusable option for microbicide gel delivery and provide contraceptive protection at the same time.

The SILCS diaphragm is now available in over 20 countries, including Europe, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, and the United States. PATH led a user-centered design process involving input from women, their partners, and providers whose feedback resulted in its innovative design that is easy and comfortable to use.

This issue of Outlook examines the scope and impact of misperceptions about contraception, the science behind debunking misperceptions, and approaches that programs are using to address this persistent problem.Outlook, June 2015.

Despite significant gains in global health in the past several decades, too many people still die every year from preventable and treatable diseases and conditions. To continue our progress toward a healthier world, new and better health tools and technologies are urgently needed. Ongoing investment in global health research and development (R&D) is essential to advance promising tools and make them available, particularly among the poorest and most marginalized. This fact sheet highlights PATH’s efforts to accelerate lifesaving innovations and strengthen policies to advance global health R&D.

The SILCS diaphragm has been evaluated in ten studies conducted in multiple countries since 1998. These studies include design validation and consumer use studies, as well as clinical studies of safety, effectiveness, and acceptability. This document provides summaries of the key studies implemented during development and validation of SILCS as a barrier contraceptive.