Population Council Research that makes a difference

Abstract

Acceptability of a Carrageenan-based candidate vaginal microbicide and matching placebo: Findings from a phase II safety trial among women in Chiang Rai, Thailand 
Jones,Heidi E.; Chaikummao,Supaporn; van de Wijgert,Janneke; Friedland,Barbara A.; Manopaiboon,Chomnad; Witwatwongwana,Paisit; Wankrairoj,Mayuree; Chantharojwong,Nartlada; Kilmarx,Peter H.
Journal of Women's Health 18(7): 1003-1010
Publication date: 2009


Objective
To evaluate extended acceptability of vaginal use of a carrageenan-based candidate microbicide andplacebo in northern Thai women.

Methods
As part of a randomized, placebo-controlled, triple-blinded clinical trial, women were asked to insertgel with each vaginal sex act and at least three times per week for 1 year. Used applicators were collected monthly; acceptability questions were asked quarterly.

Results
One hundred sixty-five women were enrolled (83 microbicide, 82 placebo); 148 (90%) remained in thestudy for 12 months. Gel use was high, with 87% returning at least three used applicators per week at each visit. Although acceptability was generally high, some decline in positive reporting was noted in terms of ease of application, timing of gel insertion, and gel volume over time. Approximately one quarter reported gel use increased her sexual pleasure. Over one quarter reported that gel volume of 5mL was too much. All women with a steady partner at 12 months reported talking to their partner about using the gel. Only 2 women spontaneously mentioned being able to use a product covertly as one of the most appealing attributes of a potential microbicide.

Conclusions
Although women in this study generally reported high acceptability and use, some found 5mL ofgel to be too much. Focusing on enhanced sexual pleasure and lubrication may be beneficial for marketing proven microbicides. Development of products will need to balance lubrication and efficacy with perceptions of too much volume. The ability to use a product covertly was not a high priority in this population.