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13th International AIDS ConferenceDurban, South Africa - July 9-July 14, 2000 |
Int Conf AIDS 2000 Jul 9-14; 13:(abstract no. ThOrC662)
Srirak N, Sirirojn B-O, Rugpao S, Srisomboon J, Celentano D, Wongthanee A, Wichajarn M, Nelson K, Khamboonruang C
N. Srirak, PO Box 80 CMU, Chiang Mai 50202, Thailand, Tel.: +66 53 221 966, Fax: +66 53 221 849, E-mail: rhonsrrk@chiangmai.co.th
BACKGROUND: The major risk for HIV infection in Thailand is sexual transmission. The use of a vaginal microbicide (VM) is a potentially useful prevention strategy for women. However, VM use may directly effect male partners and sexual life. We sought to determine the acceptability of BufferGel, a candidate VM, among sexually active couples participating in a Phase I safety study in Thailand in 1998-99.
METHODS: Subjects were screened between Sept. 1998 and Dec. 1998, and enrolled for BufferGel application between Oct. 1998 and Jan. 1999. Forty women were screened and 23 enrolled, 17 in a sexually active group and 6 in an abstinent group. Side-effects of gel use were measured with interviews, daily logs and focus group discussions separated by gender.
RESULTS: Findings from all 3 measures regarding side-effects of gel use consistent and showed minimal complaints and high acceptability of use. Women reported that the most common side-effects were vaginal itching and burning sensation. The symptoms were mild and subsequently disappeared one hour after an application of the gel. The color and odour of the gel were acceptable. The applicator and packaging were considered unattractive. Men had no objections to partner's use of BufferGel; men generally believed gel use was a "woman's business". Some men complained of unnatural feelings while having sex, decreased sexual sensation and feelings of disgust. In contrast, other men felt intercourse was more natural and pleasurable after gel application. The gel itself was not disliked by men, especially in contrast to condom use.
CONCLUSIONS: There was no serious adverse events reported by women in this study; side-effects of the gel were minimal. Men complained of few side effects from BufferGel but expressed some concerns with being required to use condoms. Factors influencing their decision to let their wives use vaginal microbicides included safety and anticipated side-effects of the product.
Copyright © 2000 - International AIDS Society (IAS). Reproduction of this abstract (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the IAS.
