The Acceptability of a Vaginal Microbicide among South African Men

Abstract

With the explosive nature of the South African AIDS epidemic there is an urgent need for HIV prevention methods controlled by women. Because several microbicide trials are going on in South Africa and elsewhere there also is an urgent need to determine South African mens perceptions of and preferences for a potential vaginal microbicide. 243 men were recruited from three sites in South Africa: sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics (N = 95) the general population (N = 98) and universities (N = 50). A brief demonstration of a potential vaginal gel microbicide was followed by a private interview which included questions about mens demographic characteristics sexual activities condom use and willingness to support their partners use of a vaginal product. The mean ages of men from STD clinics the general population and universities were 30 28 and 23 years respectively. 45% of men from STD clinics 69% from the general population and 65% of the university students reported a dislike for male condoms. More than 80% of the entire sample wanted their partner to be protected against HIV and other STDs. The majority of the men in the three groups (77-87%) would like their partner to use a microbicide and 66-82% said they would like to be involved in the decision to use a microbicide. Men were more likely to prefer a vaginal product that prevents HIV and STD transmission and does not act as a contraceptive that one that acts only as a contraceptive. The majority (58-67%) of men reported that excess lubrication was not a desired product characteristic. Vaginal microbicides may be acceptable to South African men. The amount of lubrication provided by the product and non-interference with sexual pleasure may be keys to product acceptability. Preference for an effective non-contraceptive microbicide was greater than for a contraceptive product. (authors)