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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Amanda Tanner, MPH, Applied Health Science, Indiana University, HPER 116, Bloomington, IN 47405, 8128560352, aetanner@indiana.edu

Background: This study explored factors that influence acceptability of microbicides, substances that may reduce transmission of sexually transmitted infections applied in the vagina, in Ghana, a Sub-Saharan West African country with comparably low rates of HIV/AIDS.

Methodology: Interviews were conducted with 10 individuals working in the reproductive health field and two focus groups were conducted with community women aged 24-28 (n=4, n=5).

Results: Different themes emerged associated with ability and desire to use contraception, specifically microbicides. Reports of utilization of available contraceptive options indicated hormonal methods were used more frequently than non-hormonal methods, including spermicidal tablets. In addition, dislike of certain methods, like condoms, by men, and often women, were discussed. The ability to negotiate contraceptive use depended on economic and relational issues, for example after a certain amount of time, “They're not going to use their money to buy the condoms.” The focus group women had reservations about hormonal methods as they believed it may not allow them to become pregnant in the future. All respondents believed that Ghanaian women would have a high level of interest in microbicides and had varying interest in microbicidal formulas with different contraceptive and disease prevention properties.

Conclusion: While there was a high level of interest in microbicides, products that are similar, including spermicidal tablets, are not being used as frequently as hormonal methods. Therefore, as microbicides are developed, behavioral correlates need to be assessed. Additionally, addressing gender negotiation power in social marketing will help ensure utilization of this HIV prevention method.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Identify the most common contraceptive and preventive methods being utilized in Ghana, West Africa.
• Articulate some of the issues surrounding the global trends HIV prevention.
• Discuss the implications of microbicides on the sexual and reproductive health of Ghanaian women.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered