Possibility and potential of a vaccine against human chorionic gonadotropin for family planning

Abstract

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a unique hormone produced soon after fertilization in women. It is an ideal target for contraception. Antibodies against hCG prevent pregnancy without blocking ovulation and derangement of menstrual regularity. Previous work on development of a vaccine against hCG is reviewed including the first ever safety and efficacy trials in women with a birth control vaccine. The possibility of a recombinant vaccine with enhanced immunogenicity is indicated.