HIV Prevention Options for Women Throughout Their Lives

Women’s circumstances change over time, and so do their HIV prevention and other sexual and reproductive health needs. 

Meeting those evolving needs means offering women a range of product options so they can choose the one that works best for them at different points in their lives. 

IPM’s monthly dapivirine ring received a positive opinion in 2020 from the European Medicines Agency for use among most women over 18 in developing countries and was recently recommended by the WHO for women at substantial risk for HIV. IPM is submitting regulatory applications for the ring's use in countries in sub-Saharan Africa, where the need is urgent. In addition, more safety data are needed on the product's use among adolescents under 18 and pregnant and breastfeeding women, who remain at very high risk. Studies among these key groups are now underway.   

Studies are also underway on new products that build on the monthly ring and could also help address many women’s dual HIV prevention and family planning needs. 

Learn about ring research among:

• Adolescent girls and young women
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women
• Women who want to prevent both HIV and unintended pregnancy