The Project
The research consortium, funding, press and the latest news on the CONtraCEPT project at a glance.
Research consortium
The project builds on decades of research into natural fertility and cycle monitoring. The research groups involved are among the leading centres for natural family planning and cycle research, and they work together on a sound scientific basis and with full transparency.
Find out more: www.sektion-natuerliche-fertilitaet.de
Study sites
Four university sites, one shared goal. Together, the projects combine clinical research, digital technologies and molecular analyses.
Heidelberg
Lead
Dr. med. Nefeli Malliou-Becher
Düsseldorf
Lead
Dr. med. Tanja Freundl-Schütt
Hamburg
Lead
Prof. Dr. med. Petra Arck
Jena
Lead
Prof. Dr. med. Udo Markert
Overall project coordination: Dr. med. Petra Frank-Herrmann, Heidelberg University Hospital
Project partners
Funding
The CONtraCEPT research project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR). It is part of a funding initiative in the field of gender-sensitive research, focusing on the development of new contraceptive methods.
The funding supports innovative approaches that help to further develop safe, evidence-based and practical options for family planning.
FUNDING INITIATIVE
More about the funding initiative
Further information from the BMFTR:
Press
Here you will find current press releases and media coverage on the CONtraCEPT research consortium and its goals.
26.02.2026
Natural and safe contraception: new research consortium aims to enable more reliable home tests
Heidelberg University Hospital → view
Heidelberg University Hospital → view
10.02.2026
German ministry backs consortia researching contraception
Research Professional News → view
Research Professional News → view
03.02.2026
Natural and safe contraception: new research consortium for more reliable home tests
Düsseldorf University Hospital → view
Düsseldorf University Hospital → view
27.01.2026
BMFTR funding for research on cycle apps: new research consortium for more reliable home tests
HHU Düsseldorf Faculty of Medicine → view
HHU Düsseldorf Faculty of Medicine → view
27.01.2026
Natural and safe contraception: new research consortium aims to enable more reliable home tests
Jena University Hospital → view
Jena University Hospital → view
05.11.2024
New contraceptive methods for all genders: a BMFTR expert event provided important impetus for their research
BMFTR Health Research → view
BMFTR Health Research → view
News & Updates
Currently in preparation
The studies within the research consortium are currently being prepared. As soon as there is news about the project’s progress, initial results or our social media channels, you will find it here.
CONTACT
Questions about the project?
Do you have questions about the research consortium, the funding or the study? Feel free to send us an email and we will be happy to help.
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