VIEWS & REVIEWS 6 Questioning contraceptive research directions Assessing priorities in reproductive research will be crucial over the next decade, as population and women's issues come to the fore. The WHO-based Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP) currently focuses on developing methods of long-term effective contraception, but is under pressure from women's groups to shift its efforts towards improving barrier methods and microbicides. Consultants to the HRP argue that there is remarkably little information available about what women really do want, but that long-term efficacy seems to be high on the list of priorities. They point out that the efficacy of barrier methods of contraception is suboptimal even in developed nations, and that these methods may be poorly accepted by women in developing countries. HRP funding has declined over the last few years, endangering research into new contraceptives and other aspects of reproductive health. The consultants conclude that the HRP has a valuable contribution to make, and should be recognised and supported by policy-makers. Snow R, et al. Concerned about reproductive health" Strenthen the HRP. Lancet 344: 459-460. 13 Aug 1994 ."'" .... 20 Aug 1994INPHARMA- 0156.2703194/0951.0006/$01.00° Adl. International Limited 1994. All right. reserved

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VIEWS & REVIEWS 6

Questioning contraceptive research directions

Assessing priorities in reproductive research will be crucial over the next decade, as population and women's issues come to the fore. The WHO-based Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP) currently focuses on developing methods of long-term effective contraception, but is under pressure from women's groups to shift its efforts towards improving barrier methods and microbicides.

Consultants to the HRP argue that there is remarkably little information available about what women really do want, but that long-term efficacy seems to be high on the list of priorities. They point out that the efficacy of barrier methods of contraception is suboptimal even in developed nations, and that these methods may be poorly accepted by women in developing countries.

HRP funding has declined over the last few years, endangering research into new contraceptives and other aspects of reproductive health. The consultants conclude that the HRP has a valuable contribution to make, and should be recognised and supported by policy-makers. Snow R, et al. Concerned about reproductive health" Strenthen the HRP. Lancet

344: 459-460. 13 Aug 1994 ."'" ....

20 Aug 1994INPHARMA- 0156.2703194/0951.0006/$01.00° Adl. International Limited 1994. All right. reserved