Abstract summary 

We assessed if acceptability of the dapivirine vaginal ring for HIV prevention differed among the subgroup of women who reported engaging in transactional sex prior to enrollment in MTN-020/ASPIRE (phase III trial in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, 2012-2015;  = 2629). Transactional sex was defined as receipt of money, goods, gifts, drugs, or shelter in exchange for sex in the past year. Dimensions of acceptability included: ease of use and physical sensation in situ, impacts on sex, partner's opinion, and likelihood of future use. We used Poisson regression models with robust standard errors to compare risk of acceptability challenges by baseline history of transactional sex. At product discontinuation, women exchanging sex found the ring comfortable (90%), easy to insert (92%) and nearly all (96%) were likely to use the ring in the future. Women who had exchanged sex were more likely to report feeling the ring during sex (ARR 1.43, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.89;  = 0.01) and slightly more likely to mind wearing the ring during menses (ARR 1.22, 95% CI: 1.01, 1,46;  = 0.04) and during sex (ARR 1.22, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.45;  = 0.03). Messaging and counseling should include enhanced support for use during sex and menses to support optimal use.

Authors & Co-authors:  Browne Erica N EN Torjesen Kristine K Mirembe Brenda Gati BG Palanee-Phillips Thesla T Jeenarain Nitesha N Chitukuta Miria M Stoner Marie C D MCD Mansoor Leila E LE Reddy Krishnaveni K Tauya Thelma T TT Naidoo Logashvari L Siva Samantha S Richardson Barbra B Dadabhai Sufia S Seyama Linly L Soto-Torres Lydia L van der Straten Ariane A

Study Outcome 

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