Almost half of pregnancies in the world were not planned. Some occur despite the use of contraceptives. This situation reflects an obvious and unmet need for a more effective method of contraception. Many women would prefer to take a non-hormonal contraceptive that does not cause side effects. However, this is not the case with the contraceptive methods currently available on the market. Contraceptive drugs usually cause mood swings, weight gain, and can even have carcinogenic effects.
Recently, scientists from l’institut royal de technology de Stockholm (KTH) have found a new natural way to prevent pregnancy. This gel naturel is an interesting alternative to spermicides and birth control pills. This new contraceptive does not induce any side effects. This is a prophylactic gel made with all-natural, non-hormonal ingredients that strengthen the cervical mucus barrier.
This cervical mucus has the function ofisolate the vagina, where bacteria proliferate, from the uterus. It also regulates entry of sperm inside the uterus depending on the period of the menstrual cycle.
A highly effective topical gel with no side effects
Very promising, this treatment has shown 98% efficiency in tests performed in ovulating ewes. The gel drastically reduced the number of uterine spermatozoa in treated ewes. In comparison, birth control pills are known to be effective between 91 and 99%. Thomas Crouzier, a biopolymer researcher at KTH, said only two sperm were detected in the uterus of one of the eight ewes tested.
These results demonstrate the enormous potential of this topical gel. In addition, this product brings a new approach in the prevention of unwanted pregnancies. Instead of killing sperm like spermicides do, it blocks them withmucus engineering. The new contraceptive exploits the ability natural cervical mucus erect a physical barrier at the entrance to the vagina.
Cervical mucus becomes impassable by sperm
From the first day of the cycle until ovulation, the cervical mucus bECOMES a very selective barrier. But she still lets some sperm into the uterus. Scientists altered this dynamic by cross-linking mucin molecules with chitosan. It is these mucin molecules that give mucus its lubricating property. Chitosan, on the other hand, is a natural fibrous component that is frequently found in medical products such as hydrogels, mesh or sutures.
The cervical mucus is then momentarily thickened by this mixture, and effectively prevents the passage of sperm. Tested in the laboratory, chitosan showed a similar effect on cervical mucus and human sperm. The researchers observed a complete blockage of sperm following five minutes of exposure to the mixture. This vaginal gel can therefore be applied a few minutes before sexual intercourse and remains active for several hours.
SOURCE : TECHEXPLORIST
