Efforts are under way to develop a microbicide, which would be similar to spermicides, available as a gel or a cream that could be applied topically to the vagina before sexual intercourse. 

Scientists hope to develop two types. 

Ones would prevent both pregnancy and HIV transmission. 

The other would protect against HIV only, possibly offering the opportunity to conceive while minimizing the risk of HIV transmission between partners.

While a number of substances have now been proven safe and effective in animals, and are currently being tested in people, no safe and effective microbicide is currently available to the public. 

If one of the product leads proves successful and if there is sufficient investment, a microbicide could be available in five to seven years, providing another option for reducing sexual transmission of HIV.