Contraception and family planning are vital aspects of sexual and reproductive health and rights. Despite major advances in modern contraception over the past 60 years many gaps remain, and the rate of unplanned pregnancies and abortions remains high. These issues have given rise to a new era in contraception research with great opportunities and many challenges. These opportunities include new innovations, particularly in the areas of male contraception, non-hormonal female contraception, and multipurpose prevention methods that provide contraception in combination with protection against leading sexually transmitted pathogens; fast tracking new inventions currently in the pipeline by intensifying support from government, non-profit, and industry entities; the provision of new methods, services, and messaging for underserved populations including men, marginalised women, and transgender individuals; and better understanding the needs of diverse populations.