Project aims to deliver pain-free microneedle contraception

Supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Cardiff-led research consortium will focus on pre-clinical work to develop microneedle patches that have the potential to be painlessly and inconspicuously administered by the user themselves within a few seconds and can last for up to six months.

Cardiff University’s School of Engineering and School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences have secured funding for the project that brings together partners from academia, NGOs, charitable bodies, and NHS Trusts.

Industry partners InnoCore Pharmaceuticals will utilise its biodegradable polymer platform to develop microneedles exhibiting the required mechanical properties for effective and painless puncturing of the skin, followed by contraception delivery for up to six months.

According to Cardiff, socio-economic and cultural barriers are preventing women from obtaining contraception even when they want to plan or prevent pregnancy. There may be a lack of awareness of the risk of becoming pregnant, and some may be deterred by the cost, inconvenience or concerns about side effects. Many simply lack access to effective methods of contraception.