Vaginal HIV prevention ring approved

South Africa’s medicines regulator, SAHPRA, has approved the new vaginal ring for use by women ages 18 and older to reduce their HIV risk. This is a major milestone, bringing the first long-acting and woman-controlled product a step closer to reaching the women who need it.

What is it?

The Vaginal Ring is a flexible, silicon band containing the antiretroviral medicine (ARV) dapivirine.

How does it work?

The ring is put into the vagina every month and slowly releases dapivirine into the body to help prevent HIV infection. It works to prevent HIV in people who are HIV negative in the same way as the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) pill.

Why is this good news?

Women bear a disproportionate burden of the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, with nearly two‐thirds of new adult infections in South Africa occurring among women. The ring is a great new prevention option designed specifically for women.

The ring:

• Is discrete – women can use it without anyone knowing.
• Has fewer side-effects than traditional PrEP pills because it is absorbed slowly into the body.
• Is easier to use because you don’t have to remember to take a pill every day.
• Works well: a number of studies (including studies in South Africa) have found it is safe and effective at preventing HIV infections.
• Will be affordable – it was developed by the nonprofit International Partnership for Microbicides (IPM) and is licensed to be used in low-resource settings.

REMEMBER: The ring only works to prevent HIV, it doesn’t prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy so people should always also use condoms and lubricant every time they have sex.

Download the Dapivirine Ring Infographic >