Researchers at the University of Washington have created an alternative condom for women, which, when they dissolve, will release drugs made specifically to prevent an HIV infection.
The condoms are made through a process that is called electrospinning, where “an electric field is used to throw charged fluid through the air.” That seems… messy. Oh, wait, there’s more to it?
Once the fluid hits said field, it’s stretched into nanometer-sized fibers, which can control their shape. Okay, that doesn’t seem so insane. The final product can block sperm or release spermicides to prevent pregnancy, as well as drugs to prevent HIV.
According to researchers, they also believe that they can incorporate other preventative measures to prevent the contracting of many common STIs.
Emily Krogstad, a grad-student researcher at the University of Washington, wondered, “At the time of sex, are people going to actually use it? … Depending on cultural background and personal preferences, certain populations may differ in terms of what form of technology makes the most sense for them.”
Kim Woodrow, one of the lead authors, noted: “Our dream is to create a product women can use to protect themselves from HIV infection and unintended pregnancy.”
Question: Is this sort of technology viable? Do you think it’ll be effective and/or will people use it?