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Montgomery ET, Roberts ST, Reddy K, Tolley E, Hartmann M, Wilson E, Mathebula F, Wagner LD, Zissette S, Lanham M, Wilcher R, Baeten JM, Palanee-Phillips T. Integration of a Relationship-focused Counseling Intervention with Delivery of the Dapivirine Ring for HIV Prevention to Women in Johannesburg: Results of the CHARISMA Pilot Study. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:752-763. [PMID: 34546473 PMCID: PMC8840958 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03434-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Biomedical, female-initiated HIV prevention methods can help reduce disproportionately high HIV rates among women in sub-Saharan Africa, but male partner resistance and intimate partner violence (IPV) may impact ability to ensure effective use. To support consistent use of the dapivirine vaginal ring (VR), we pilot-tested the impact of the CHARISMA relationship counseling intervention ("CHARISMA") with women enrolled in the multi-site open-label Microbicide Trials Network (MTN) 025/HOPE trial at the Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Research Institute (Wits RHI) site in Johannesburg, South Africa. Lay counselors used a 42-item tool with five subscales to assess relationships and IPV and provide tailored counseling at enrolment, followed by a booster counselling session at Month 1 and follow-up checks at Months 3 and 6. We evaluated potential impact by examining self-reported ring disclosure to partners, partner clinic attendance, self-reported incident social harms (SH) and IPV, and biomarkers of ring adherence at Wits RHI. We subsequently compared these outcomes at three comparator HOPE study sites using multivariable regression models. Comparator study sites were purposively selected as those most similar to Wits RHI for baseline characteristics identified a priori. At Wits RHI, 95 of 96 (99%) HOPE participants enrolled into the CHARISMA pilot study. Mean age was 30, 36.8% lived with a partner, and 85.3% received their partner's financial support. During the six months of pilot study follow-up, participants reported: ring use disclosure to partners at 72.7% visits; 4.3% partners attending the research clinic; one partner-related SH; and 9.5% experienced incident IPV. The mean level of dapivirine released from returned used rings was 3.4 mg (SD 1.56), suggesting moderate adherence. Participants in the CHARISMA pilot had high background prevalence and incidence of IPV but were nevertheless able to adhere to ring use, and some male partners came to the research clinic. In adjusted regression models, compared to Wits RHI, partner clinic attendance was lower at all comparator sites; and significantly so at Site A (aRR 0.12, 95% CI 0.00-0.98). Sites B and C had lower levels of dapivirine released (suggesting lower adherence), but this difference was not significant. Site B women were more likely to report ring disclosure to partners at FU visits (aRR 1.12, 95% CI 1.00-1.25). IPV reported during follow-up was significantly lower at Site B (aRR 0.20, 95% CI 0.04-0.98, p = 0.047). CHARISMA taught women skills to decide on levels of ring-use disclosure to partners or others; therefore it is difficult to interpret differences in ring disclosure to partners with other sites. Similarly, CHARISMA heightened participants' awareness of abuse, possibly increasing IPV reports. Testing CHARISMA under fully-powered controlled conditions will improve understanding of its impact on women's relationships and ability to use female-initiated HIV prevention methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah T Roberts
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Krishnaveni Reddy
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Miriam Hartmann
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Ellen Wilson
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Florence Mathebula
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - L Danielle Wagner
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Weinrib R, Browne EN, Shapley-Quinn MK, van der Straten A, Beksinska M, Mgodi N, Musara P, Mphili N, Schwartz JL, Ju S, Hanif H, Montgomery ET. Perspectives from Young South African and Zimbabwean Women on Attributes of Four (Placebo) Vaginal Microbicide Delivery Forms. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:637-647. [PMID: 31254190 PMCID: PMC6988116 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02576-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Incorporating end-user input into the design of new vaginal microbicides for women is key to optimizing their uptake, consistent use, and, ultimately, success in combatting the heterosexual HIV epidemic. Methods The Quatro Study assessed four placebo forms of vaginally inserted HIV-microbicides among young microbicide-naïve African women: on-demand film, insert and gel, and monthly ring. Participants randomly used each product for 1 month and provided product satisfaction ratings (1–5 scale), and opinions on product attributes and potential alternative designs. Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions at study exit. Multivariable associations between attribute opinions and overall product rating were examined using Poisson regression models with robust standard errors to assess the attributes most influential to satisfaction. Results Overall opinions of products and their individual attributes were generally positive; all products were rated either 4 or a 5 by ≥ 50% of participants. Attributes related to ease of use and interference with normal activities were the most salient predictors of satisfaction. Preferences for duration of use tended toward relatively shorter use periods for the ring (i.e., 1–3 months vs. 12 months) and for coitally independent dosing for the on-demand products. Conclusions How well a product fit in with participants’ lifestyles was important to their overall satisfaction. For on-demand products, greater flexibility around timing of use was desired, to avoid coital dependency of the dosing. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s10461-019-02576-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Weinrib
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- RTI Health Solutions, RTI International, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - E N Browne
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M K Shapley-Quinn
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - A van der Straten
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M Beksinska
- MatCH Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - N Mgodi
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences-Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - P Musara
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences-Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - N Mphili
- MatCH Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - J L Schwartz
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, CONRAD, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - S Ju
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, CONRAD, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - H Hanif
- Eastern Virginia Medical School, CONRAD, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - E T Montgomery
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The MTN-020/ASPIRE trial evaluated the safety and effectiveness of the dapivirine vaginal ring for prevention of HIV-1 infection among African women. A nested qualitative component was conducted at six of 15 study sites in Uganda, Malawi, Zimbabwe and South Africa to evaluate acceptability of and adherence to the ring. METHOD Qualitative study participants (n = 214) were interviewed with one of three modalities: single in-depth interview, up to three serial interviews or an exit Focus Group Discussion. Using semistructured guides administered in local languages, 280 interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated, coded and analyzed. RESULTS We identified three key findings: first, despite initial fears about the ring's appearance and potential side effects, participants grew to like it and developed a sense of ownership of the ring once they had used it. Second, uptake and sustained adherence challenges were generally overcome with staff and peer support. Participants developed gradual familiarity with ring use through trial progression, and most reported that it was easy to use and integrate into their lives. Using the ring in ASPIRE was akin to joining a team and contributing to a broader, communal good. Third, the actual or perceived dynamics of participants' male partner relationship(s) were the most consistently described influence (which ranged from positive to negative) on participants' acceptability and use of the ring. CONCLUSION It is critical that demonstration projects address challenges during the early adoption stages of ring diffusion to help achieve its potential public health impact as an effective, long-acting, female-initiated HIV prevention option addressing women's disproportionate HIV burden.
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Higgins JA, Smith NK. The Sexual Acceptability of Contraception: Reviewing the Literature and Building a New Concept. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2016; 53:417-56. [PMID: 26954608 PMCID: PMC4868075 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2015.1134425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
How contraceptives affect women's sexual well-being is critically understudied. Fortunately, a growing literature focuses on sexual aspects of contraception, especially hormonal contraception's associations with libido. However, a more holistic approach to contraceptive sexual acceptability is needed to capture the full range of women's sexual experiences. We conducted a narrative literature review of this topic, working with an original sample of 3,001 citations published from 2005 to 2015. In Part 1, we draw from a subset of this literature (264 citations) to build a new conceptual model of sexual acceptability. Aspects include macro factors (gender, social inequality, culture, and structure), relationship factors (dyadic influences and partner preferences), and individual factors (sexual functioning, sexual preferences, such as dis/inhibition, spontaneity, pleasure, the sexual aspects of side effects, such as bleeding, mood changes, sexual identity and sexual minority status, and pregnancy intentions). In Part 2, we review the empirical literature on the sexual acceptability of individual methods (103 citations), applying the model as much as possible. Results suggest contraceptives can affect women's sexuality in a wide variety of positive and negative ways that extend beyond sexual functioning alone. More attention to sexual acceptability could promote both women's sexual well-being and more widespread, user-friendly contraceptive practices.
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Optimizing HIV prevention for women: a review of evidence from microbicide studies and considerations for gender-sensitive microbicide introduction. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:20536. [PMID: 26700845 PMCID: PMC4689151 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.1.20536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Microbicides were conceptualized as a product that could give women increased agency over HIV prevention. However, gender-related norms and inequalities that place women and girls at risk of acquiring HIV are also likely to affect their ability to use microbicides. Understanding how gendered norms and inequalities may pose obstacles to women's microbicide use is important to inform product design, microbicide trial implementation and eventually microbicide and other antiretroviral-based prevention programmes. We reviewed published vaginal microbicide studies to identify gender-related factors that are likely to affect microbicide acceptability, access and adherence. We make recommendations on product design, trial implementation, positioning, marketing and delivery of microbicides in a way that takes into account the gender-related norms and inequalities identified in the review. Methods We conducted PubMed searches for microbicide studies published in journals between 2000 and 2013. Search terms included trial names (e.g. “MDP301”), microbicide product names (e.g. “BufferGel”), researchers’ names (e.g. “van der Straten”) and other relevant terms (e.g. “microbicide”). We included microbicide clinical trials; surrogate studies in which a vaginal gel, ring or diaphragm was used without an active ingredient; and hypothetical studies in which no product was used. Social and behavioural studies implemented in conjunction with clinical trials and surrogate studies were also included. Although we recognize the importance of rectal microbicides to women, we did not include studies of rectal microbicides, as most of them focused on men who have sex with men. Using a standardized review template, three reviewers read the articles and looked for gender-related findings in key domains (e.g. product acceptability, sexual pleasure, partner communication, microbicide access and adherence). Results and discussion The gendered norms, roles and relations that will likely affect women's ability to access and use microbicides are related to two broad categories: norms regulating women's and men's sexuality and power dynamics within intimate relationships. Though norms about women's and men's sexuality vary among cultural contexts, women's sexual behaviour and pleasure are typically less socially acceptable and more restricted than men's. These norms drive the need for woman-initiated HIV prevention, but also have implications for microbicide acceptability and how they are likely to be used by women of different ages and relationship types. Women's limited power to negotiate the circumstances of their intimate relationships and sex lives will impact their ability to access and use microbicides. Men's role in women's effective microbicide use can range from opposition to non-interference to active support. Conclusions Identifying an effective microbicide that women can use consistently is vital to the future of HIV prevention for women. Once such a microbicide is identified and licensed, positioning, marketing and delivering microbicides in a way that takes into account the gendered norms and inequalities we have identified would help maximize access and adherence. It also has the potential to improve communication about sexuality, strengthen relationships between women and men and increase women's agency over their bodies and their health.
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Woodsong C, Holt JDS. Acceptability and preferences for vaginal dosage forms intended for prevention of HIV or HIV and pregnancy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2015; 92:146-54. [PMID: 25703190 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2015.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2014] [Revised: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This paper reviews key issues found to affect acceptability and preferences for vaginal products to prevent HIV infection or HIV and pregnancy. We focus on the interplay between the biological and physico-chemical aspects of formulation and the social and behavioral issues that may affect use. The need for an HIV prevention product that women can use is driven by women's increased biological and social vulnerability to HIV infection, and thus social and behavioral research on microbicide acceptability has been conducted alongside, as well as separate from, the earliest product development efforts. Some acceptability and preference issues are specific to a product's dosage form, use-requirements, and/or use indications, while others pertain to any vaginal product used for prevention of HIV or pregnancy. Although most of the work cited here was published since 2010, it draws on a much longer trajectory of research.
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MESH Headings
- Administration, Intravaginal
- Anti-HIV Agents/administration & dosage
- Anti-HIV Agents/adverse effects
- Anti-HIV Agents/pharmacokinetics
- Contraceptive Agents, Female/administration & dosage
- Contraceptive Agents, Female/adverse effects
- Contraceptive Agents, Female/pharmacokinetics
- Drug Delivery Systems/methods
- Female
- HIV Infections/prevention & control
- Humans
- Patient Preference
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy, Unplanned
- Vagina/physiology
- Vaginal Absorption
- Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies/administration & dosage
- Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies/adverse effects
- Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies/pharmacokinetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Woodsong
- International Partnership for Microbicides, 8401 Colesville Rd., Ste 200, Silver Spring MD 20910, USA.
| | - Jonathon D S Holt
- International Partnership for Microbicides, 8401 Colesville Rd., Ste 200, Silver Spring MD 20910, USA
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Woodsong C, Musara P, Chandipwisa A, Montgomery E, Alleman P, Chirenje M, Chipato T, Martinson F, Hoffman I. Interest in multipurpose prevention of HIV and pregnancy: perspectives of women, men, health professionals and community stakeholders in two vaginal gel studies in southern Africa. BJOG 2014; 121 Suppl 5:45-52. [PMID: 25335840 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.12875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The pipeline of vaginal microbicides for HIV prevention has expanded to include products for multipurpose prevention, but the interests of potential users and those advising on use have not been sufficiently investigated. Rather, assumptions about interest in multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) are inferred from what is known about acceptability and use of microbicides or contraceptives. DESIGN AND SETTING This paper presents data on concerns and preferences for multipurpose prevention of HIV and pregnancy. Data were collected in two microbicide gel studies in Malawi and Zimbabwe. Participants were women using candidate vaginal products, their male partners, health professionals and community stakeholders. METHODS An individual interview was conducted with participants. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, coded for content and analysed for key themes. RESULTS Participants indicated strong interest in a vaginal HIV prevention product that could also prevent pregnancy. Reasons for this interest were convenience, problems with adverse effects with current contraceptive methods, concerns about long-term effects of contraceptives, and concerns about the health burdens of HIV infection during pregnancy. The main disadvantage of an MPT was recognition that while interest in preventing HIV is constant, contraceptive needs change over time. CONCLUSION The study population indicated support for an MPT to prevent HIV and pregnancy. This support may be further strengthened if the product is also available for prevention of only HIV. Women and men will be more willing to use an MPT if they can be reassured that its use will have no long-term effect on fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Woodsong
- International Partnership for Microbicides, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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Women's experiences with oral and vaginal pre-exposure prophylaxis: the VOICE-C qualitative study in Johannesburg, South Africa. PLoS One 2014; 9:e89118. [PMID: 24586534 PMCID: PMC3931679 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0089118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In VOICE, a multisite HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) trial, plasma drug levels pointed to widespread product nonuse, despite high adherence estimated by self-reports and clinic product counts. Using a socio-ecological framework (SEF), we explored socio-cultural and contextual factors that influenced participants’ experience of daily vaginal gel and oral tablet regimens in VOICE. Methods In Johannesburg, a qualitative ancillary study was concurrently conducted among randomly selected VOICE participants assigned to in-depth interviews (n = 41), serial ethnographic interviews (n = 21), or focus group discussions (n = 40). Audiotaped interviews were transcribed, translated, and coded thematically for analysis. Results Of the 102 participants, the mean age was 27 years, and 96% had a primary sex partner with whom 43% cohabitated. Few women reported lasting nonuse, which they typically attributed to missed visits, lack of product replenishments, and family-related travel or work. Women acknowledged occasionally skipping or mistiming doses because they forgot, were busy, felt lazy or bored, feared or experienced side effects. However, nearly all knew or heard of other study participants who did not use products daily. Three overarching themes emerged from further analyses: ambivalence toward research, preserving a healthy status, and managing social relationships. These themes highlighted the profound and complex meanings associated with participating in a blinded HIV PrEP trial and taking antiretroviral-based products. The unknown efficacy of products, their connection with HIV infection, challenges with daily regimen given social risks, lack of support–from partners and significant others–and the relationship tradeoffs entailed by using the products appear to discourage adequate product use. Conclusions Personal acknowledgment of product nonuse was challenging. This qualitative inquiry highlighted key influences at all SEF levels that shaped women’s perceptions of trial participation and experiences with investigational products. Whether these impacted women’s behaviors and may have contributed to ineffective trial results warrants further investigation.
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Jemmott LS, Jemmott JB, Ngwane Z, Icard L, O’Leary A, Gueits L, Brawner B. 'Let Us Protect Our Future' a culturally congruent evidenced-based HIV/STD risk-reduction intervention for young South African adolescents. HEALTH EDUCATION RESEARCH 2014; 29:166-81. [PMID: 23962491 PMCID: PMC3894663 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyt072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2012] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
One of the worst HIV/AIDS epidemics in the world is occurring in South Africa, where heterosexual exposure is the main mode of HIV transmission. Young people 15-24 years of age, particularly women, account for a large share of new infections. Accordingly, there is an urgent need for behavior-change interventions to reduce the incidence of HIV among adolescents in South Africa. However, there are few such interventions with proven efficacy for South African adolescents, especially young adolescents. A recent cluster-randomized controlled trial of the 'Let Us Protect Our Future!' HIV/STD risk-reduction intervention for Grade 6 South African adolescents (mean age = 12.4 years) found significant decreases in self-reported sexual risk behaviors compared with a control intervention. This article describes the intervention, the use of the social cognitive theory and the reasoned action approach to develop the intervention, how formative research informed its development and the acceptability of the intervention. Challenges in designing and implementing HIV/STD risk-reduction interventions for young adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. S. Jemmott
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, and Center for Health Behavior and Communication Research, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Suite 520, Philadelphia, Department of Anthropology, Haverford College, Haverford, PA 19041, USA, College of Health Professions and Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA and National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
| | - J. B. Jemmott
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, and Center for Health Behavior and Communication Research, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Suite 520, Philadelphia, Department of Anthropology, Haverford College, Haverford, PA 19041, USA, College of Health Professions and Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA and National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
| | - Z. Ngwane
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, and Center for Health Behavior and Communication Research, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Suite 520, Philadelphia, Department of Anthropology, Haverford College, Haverford, PA 19041, USA, College of Health Professions and Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA and National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
| | - L. Icard
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, and Center for Health Behavior and Communication Research, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Suite 520, Philadelphia, Department of Anthropology, Haverford College, Haverford, PA 19041, USA, College of Health Professions and Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA and National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
| | - A. O’Leary
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, and Center for Health Behavior and Communication Research, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Suite 520, Philadelphia, Department of Anthropology, Haverford College, Haverford, PA 19041, USA, College of Health Professions and Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA and National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
| | - L. Gueits
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, and Center for Health Behavior and Communication Research, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Suite 520, Philadelphia, Department of Anthropology, Haverford College, Haverford, PA 19041, USA, College of Health Professions and Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA and National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
| | - B. Brawner
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Boulevard, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, and Center for Health Behavior and Communication Research, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, Suite 520, Philadelphia, Department of Anthropology, Haverford College, Haverford, PA 19041, USA, College of Health Professions and Social Work, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA and National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
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MacCarthy S, Rasanathan JJK, Ferguson L, Gruskin S. The pregnancy decisions of HIV-positive women: the state of knowledge and way forward. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH MATTERS 2013. [PMID: 23177686 DOI: 10.1016/s0968-8080(12)39641-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the growing number of women living with and affected by HIV, there is still insufficient attention to their pregnancy-related needs, rights, decisions and desires in research, policy and programs. We carried out a review of the literature to ascertain the current state of knowledge and highlight areas requiring further attention. We found that contraceptive options for pregnancy prevention by HIV-positive women are insufficient: condoms are not always available or acceptable, and other options are limited by affordability, availability or efficacy. Further, coerced sterilization of women living with HIV is widely reported. Information gaps persist in relation to effectiveness, safety and best practices regarding assisted reproductive technologies. Attention to neonatal outcomes generally outweighs attention to the health of women before, during and after pregnancy. Access to safe abortion and post-abortion care services, which are critical to women's ability to fulfill their sexual and reproductive rights, are often curtailed. There is inadequate attention to HIV-positive sex workers, injecting drug users and adolescents. The many challenges that women living with HIV encounter in their interactions with sexual and reproductive health services shape their pregnancy decisions. It is critical that HIV-positive women be more involved in the design and implementation of research, policies and programs related to their pregnancy-related needs and rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah MacCarthy
- The Miriam Hospital and Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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van der Straten A, Montgomery ET, Hartmann M, Minnis A. Methodological Lessons from Clinical Trials and the Future of Microbicide Research. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s11904-012-0141-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Abstract
Duet® is a microbicide-delivery system and cervical barrier for use daily or precoitally. We conducted a crossover study among 80 Zimbabwean women to explore factors associated with use-regimen preference. Women were assigned in random order to 14 days of precoital and 14 days of daily Duet and BufferGel use. About 51 % of women preferred precoital use, 39 % preferred daily use, and 10 % liked both equally. Overall product adherence during sex was similar for both use-regimens. In multivariable analysis, diaphragm experience was associated with preference for precoital use (AOR 2.80, 95 % CI 1.01-7.76). Reasons for preferring precoital use included use only when needed, cleanliness, and discomfort with daily use. Daily use preference included convenience, discreetness, and being prepared for "sex-on-demand." Different personal and life circumstances may result in varying use-regimen preferences. Methods that can accommodate both coitally-related and daily use may be advantageous by providing more choice to users.
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Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa, HIV incidence and prevalence remain disproportionately high among women. Vaginal rings (VRs) have been formulated for the delivery of antiretroviral-based microbicides, and their favorable safety and tolerability profiles reported in clinical studies. Although the concept of drug release through a VR has existed since 1970, and VRs have been marketed since 1992 for contraceptive or hormone replacement purposes, VR use as a microbicide delivery system is a novel application. This is the first study to evaluate VR adherence among African women in the context of its potential use as an HIV prevention method, to examine predictors of adherence, and to describe clinical or contextual reasons for VR removals or nonadherence. This was a randomized trial of the safety and acceptability of a placebo VR worn for 12 weeks in 170 HIV-negative, African women aged 18-35 in four clinic sites in South Africa and Tanzania. The findings suggest that adherence to VR use in the context of HIV prevention trials in these communities should be high, thereby enabling more accurate assessment of an active microbicide safety and efficacy.
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Alexander KA, Coleman CL, Deatrick JA, Jemmott LS. Moving beyond safe sex to women-controlled safe sex: a concept analysis. J Adv Nurs 2011; 68:1858-69. [PMID: 22111843 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2011.05881.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM This paper is a report of a conceptual analysis of women-controlled safe sex. BACKGROUND Women bear disproportionate burdens from sexually related health compromising outcomes. Imbalanced societal gender and power positions contribute to high morbidities. The expression, women-controlled safe sex, aims to empower women to gain control of their sexual lives. Few researchers focus on contextualized socio-cultural definitions of sexual safety among women. DATA SOURCES The sample included scientific literature from Scopus, CINAHL, PubMed, PsychINFO and Sociological Abstracts. Papers were published 2000-2010. REVIEW METHODS Critical analyses of literature about women-controlled safe sex were performed in May 2011 using Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis methods. The search focused on social and cultural influences on sexual practices aimed at increasing women's control over their sexual safety. RESULTS The analysis uncovered five attributes of women-controlled safe sex: technology; access to choices; women at-risk; 'condom migration' panic; and communication. Three antecedents included: male partner influence; body awareness; and self-efficacy. Consequences were categorized as positive or negative. Nine surrogate terms included: empowerment; gender power; female-controlled sexual barrier method; microbicides; diaphragm; sexual negotiation and communication; female condom; women-initiated disease transmission prevention; and spermicides. Finally, a consensus definition was identified: a socio-culturally influenced multi-level process for initiating sexual safety by women deemed at-risk for sexually related dangers, usually sexually transmitted infections and/or HIV/AIDS. CONCLUSION This concept analysis described current significance, uses, and applications of women-controlled safe sex in the scientific literature. The authors clarified its limited nature and conclude that additional conceptual refinement in nursing is necessary to influence women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila A Alexander
- Center for Health Equity Research University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Pennsylvania, USA.
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van der Straten A, Cheng H, Minnis AM. Change in condom and other barrier method use during and after an HIV prevention trial in Zimbabwe. J Int AIDS Soc 2010; 13:39. [PMID: 20955629 PMCID: PMC2984577 DOI: 10.1186/1758-2652-13-39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 10/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We examined the use of male condoms and the diaphragm following completion of a clinical trial of the diaphragm's HIV prevention effectiveness. In the trial, called Methods for Improving Reproductive Health in Africa (MIRA), women were randomized to a diaphragm group (diaphragm, gel and condoms) or a condom-only control group. At trial exit, all women were offered the diaphragm and condoms. Methods Our sample consisted of 801 Zimbabwean MIRA participants who completed one post-trial visit (median lapse: nine months; range two to 20 months). We assessed condom, diaphragm and any barrier method use at last sex act at enrolment, final MIRA and post-trial visits. We used multivariable random effects logistic regression to examine changes in method use between these three time points. Results and discussion In the condom group, condom use decreased from 86% at the final trial visit to 67% post trial (AOR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.33). In the diaphragm group, condom use was 61% at the final trial visit, and did not decrease significantly post trial (AOR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.55 to 1.09), while diaphragm use decreased from 79% to 50% post trial (AOR = 0.18; 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.28). Condom use significantly decreased between the enrolment and post-trial visits in both groups. Use of any barrier method was similar in both groups: it significantly decreased between the final trial and the post-trial visits, but did not change between enrolment and the post-trial visits. Conclusions High condom use levels achieved during the trial were not sustained post trial in the condom group. Post-trial diaphragm use remained relatively high in the diaphragm group (given its unknown effectiveness), but was very low in the condom group. Introducing "new" methods for HIV prevention may require time and user skills before they get adopted. Our findings underscore the potential benefit of providing a mix of methods to women as it may encourage more protected acts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane van der Straten
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI international, San Francisco Project Office, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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