ECHO trial results

The Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) trial finds no increased HIV risk in HIV-negative women using medroxyprogesterone acetate-intramuscular (DMPA-IM), also known as Depo-Provera, compared to other contraceptives. Previous research has suggested specific injectable contraceptives (such as DMPA-IM/Depo-Provera) might increase women’s risk of acquiring HIV.

The trial, which assessed the HIV risk with the use of three contraceptive methods – DMPA-IM, the LNG Implant and the copper IUD – finds no substantial difference in HIV risk among women using these methods. It also highlights the need for HIV prevention and treatment to be located within contraceptive services in order to reach women at high risk of HIV.