Electrically spun cloth could protect against pregnancy and HIV

An electrically spun fabric combining chemical and physical barriers could simultaneously prevent HIV and unwanted pregnancy.

The drug-eluting fibre meshes were found to release agents which inhibit HIV infection, while physically obstructing sperm penetration.

The scientists’ goal is to develop a multipurpose prevention technology women could use to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy.

Researchers will spend a year testing combinations that deliver antiretroviral drugs and a hormonal contraceptive, then six months scaling up production of the most promising materials.