Manglovo Health Company Profile

Background

Manglovo Health is a reproductive health startup dedicated to reimagining contraception by developing innovative, non-hormonal solutions that align with the natural rhythms of the body. The company's mission is to create safe, accessible, and effective birth control options that enhance the quality of life for women and gender-diverse individuals. By focusing on user-centric design and scientific innovation, Manglovo Health aims to address persistent health equity gaps and provide reproductive care that works harmoniously with the body.

Key Strategic Focus

Manglovo Health's strategic focus centers on developing next-generation reproductive care solutions that prioritize user well-being and convenience. The company's flagship product, ZAYA, is a first-in-class, once-weekly, non-hormonal oral contraceptive designed to provide effective contraception without the side effects commonly associated with hormonal methods. ZAYA also holds potential for managing conditions such as heavy and painful periods, endometriosis, and other reproductive health concerns.

Financials and Funding

Manglovo Health has participated in several accelerator programs, including the Westchester County Biosciences Accelerator, Almaworks Accelerator, Science Inc. Accelerator, NSF I-Corps Great Lakes Region, Max Stenbeck Venture Equity Program, and the ARPA-H Investor Catalyst Hub. These programs have provided the company with resources and mentorship to advance its mission of developing equitable, next-generation reproductive health solutions.

Pipeline Development

The company's primary pipeline candidate is ZAYA, a once-weekly, non-hormonal oral contraceptive. ZAYA is built on ormeloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that targets uterine estrogen receptors to prevent pregnancy without affecting ovulation, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, breastfeeding, libido, or weight. ZAYA has demonstrated efficacy rates of 93 to 100 percent and is designed to improve adherence compared to daily birth control methods.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Manglovo Health's innovation lies in its development of ZAYA, which leverages the properties of ormeloxifene, a SERM with a strong safety profile and over 30 years of use by millions of women and gender-diverse individuals. By selectively targeting uterine estrogen receptors, ZAYA inhibits the nidatory rush of estrogen, preventing pregnancy without systemic hormonal side effects. This targeted mechanism of action sets ZAYA apart from traditional hormonal contraceptives and offers a promising alternative for individuals seeking non-hormonal options.

Leadership Team

Mehek Bapna, Founder & CEO

Mehek has a background in neuroscience and health equity advocacy. She has conducted research at NYU Langone and Northwestern Medicine, focusing on adolescent mental health interventions. Her mission is to ensure access to birth control that empowers individuals to be happier, healthier, and in full control of their futures.

Emi Gaçaj, Co-Founder & COO

Emi has experience as a birth doula and founder of The Body Org, a national sexual health organization. She has been involved in sexual health education and advocacy, aiming to create better birth control options for individuals.

Robert Hilgraf, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer

Robert brings scientific expertise to Manglovo Health, contributing to the development and refinement of the company's contraceptive solutions.

Leadership Changes

As of June 2025, there have been no significant changes or appointments within Manglovo Health's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The contraceptive market is substantial, with a projected opportunity of $9 billion in the U.S. alone. There is a growing demand for non-hormonal contraceptive options, as 60 percent of U.S. contraceptive users prefer non-hormonal methods. However, existing options are limited, creating a significant opportunity for innovative solutions like ZAYA.

Competitor Analysis

Manglovo Health's primary competitors include companies developing contraceptive solutions, such as hormonal and non-hormonal methods. However, ZAYA's unique profile as a once-weekly, non-hormonal oral contraceptive with a targeted mechanism of action sets it apart in the market. This differentiation positions Manglovo Health to address unmet needs and capture a significant share of the contraceptive market.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Manglovo Health has engaged in strategic collaborations through participation in various accelerator programs, including the Westchester County Biosciences Accelerator, Almaworks Accelerator, Science Inc. Accelerator, NSF I-Corps Great Lakes Region, Max Stenbeck Venture Equity Program, and the ARPA-H Investor Catalyst Hub. These partnerships provide the company with resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to advance its mission and bring ZAYA to market.

Operational Insights

Manglovo Health's strategic considerations include focusing on the development and commercialization of ZAYA, leveraging its unique attributes to differentiate it from existing contraceptive options. The company's participation in accelerator programs and collaborations with scientific advisors strengthen its market position and innovation capacity.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Manglovo Health's strategic roadmap includes advancing ZAYA through preclinical trials and FDA approval, with clinical studies set to begin in 2026 and a U.S. launch planned for 2029. The company also aims for international expansion to address global contraceptive needs. By focusing on user-centric design and scientific innovation, Manglovo Health is well-positioned to achieve its future objectives and make a meaningful impact in reproductive health.