Elle MD Technologies, a Nova Scotia femtech startup, has raised $1.1 million to push forward clinical trials of its Livv birth control ring — a non-hormonal, easily removable contraceptive option designed to address side effects and limitations of current birth control methods.
- Raised $1.1 million in pre-seed funding for clinical trials
- Livv ring is hormone-free and user-removable
- Initial trials set for fall 2026 at The Ottawa Hospital
What happened
The Livv ring functions through copper’s spermicidal properties rather than hormone release, differentiating it from conventional hormonal rings and IUDs. Its design allows users to insert and remove the ring monthly on their own, giving greater control and flexibility compared to clinic-dependent methods. Prior preclinical testing in sheep demonstrated safety and efficacy, supporting the move to human trials.
Why it matters
Current birth control options often carry unwanted side effects or practical challenges, such as hormonal impacts or invasive insertion and removal requirements. Many women either cannot tolerate hormones or prefer to avoid them due to health or personal reasons. Livv’s hormone-free mechanism directly addresses these issues by offering an effective, user-friendly alternative.
The funding also highlights growing recognition and support for women-led femtech ventures in Canada, a sector historically underfunded relative to others. Elle MD’s success in raising capital after initial interest signals shifting investor attitudes towards innovations in women’s health, potentially fostering more development and options in this underserved market.
What to watch next
The key upcoming milestone for Elle MD is securing regulatory clearance from Health Canada to launch its first human clinical trial. This study will evaluate the safety profile of the Livv ring in women, laying the groundwork for subsequent efficacy trials focused on pregnancy prevention performance.
Observers should also track further product development collaboration with pharmaceutical partner Organon, which may accelerate design optimizations based on clinical feedback. Additionally, market acceptance and expansion beyond Canada will be pivotal factors determining Livv’s potential to reshape contraceptive options globally.