Color, Scent and Size: Exploring Women's Preferences Around Design Characteristics of Drug-Releasing Vaginal Rings.
Xinyu ZhaoCecilia MilfordJenni SmitBongiwe ZuluPeter BoydR Karl MalcolmMags E BeksinskaPublished in: AIDS and behavior (2022)
Steroid-releasing vaginal rings are available for contraception and estrogen replacement therapy, and a new antiretroviral-releasing ring was recently approved for HIV prevention. Marketed rings are white or transparent in appearance, non-scented, and supplied as one-size-fits-all devices with diameters ranging from 54 to 56 mm. In this study, drug-free silicone elastomer rings were manufactured in different sizes, colors and scents, and the opinions/preferences of 16 women (eThekwini District, South Africa; 20-34 years) assessed through focus group discussions and thematic analysis. Opinions varied on ring color and scent, with some women preferring specific colors or scent intensities, while for others these attributes were unimportant. Concerns about color and scent were linked to perceptions around vaginal health and safety related to chemical composition. There was greater agreement on preferred ring size; flexibility and width were considered important factors for insertion and comfort. Greater choice with ring products could facilitate acceptability and overall uptake.
Keyphrases
- south africa
- polycystic ovary syndrome
- replacement therapy
- healthcare
- pregnancy outcomes
- hiv positive
- cervical cancer screening
- public health
- hiv infected
- smoking cessation
- human immunodeficiency virus
- emergency department
- hiv aids
- pregnant women
- health information
- adverse drug
- climate change
- health promotion
- hiv infected patients
- data analysis