The Well Project sponsored a Satellite Symposium titled “Contraceptive Technologies: More Choices, Better Options” at the XVI International AIDS Conference in Toronto on Sunday, August 13, 2006. Below is a brief description of the program. To view each speaker's slide presentation, please click on the corresponding link in the right-hand column of this page.

Description: Research related to HIV, women’s health and effective contraception currently takes place in separate, non-overlapping spheres. This symposium explored critical issues related to providing safe and effective contraception for women and families affected by HIV. Speakers discussed the use of novel barrier methods, intrauterine devices and hormonal contraception for HIV-positive and at-risk women, explored the role of microbicides in contraception and conception, and examined operational issues with providing contraception in the context of HIV care. This session reflected the needs of both developed and resource-constrained settings. The interactive discussion highlighted current research gaps and future directions.

Purpose: To provide a public forum for discussion of the scientific agenda and research priorities related to the provision of safe and effective contraception for women and families affected by HIV.

Process: The symposium consisted of five 20-minute talks followed by moderated interactive discussion between the speakers and audience delegates.

Speaker: Jane Hitti, MD, MPH

Topic: It's Not Just Preventing Pregnancy...

Speaker: Jenell Coleman, MD, MPH

Topic: Friend or Foe?: The IUD and the HIV+ Woman

Speaker: Charles Morrison, MD

Topic: Hormonal Contraception: Potential Effects on the Acquisition, Natural History and Treatment of HIV

Speaker: Bryna Harwood, MD, MS

Topic: The Role of Microbicides in Contraception and Conception

Speaker: Dawn Averitt Bridge

Topic: An HIV+ Woman’s Perspective