%0 Journal Article %J AIDS Behav %D 2014 %T "Set it and forget it": women's perceptions and opinions of long-acting topical vaginal gels. %A van den Berg, Jacob J %A Rosen, Rochelle K %A Bregman, Dana E %A Thompson, Lara A %A Jensen, Kathleen M %A Kiser, Patrick F %A Katz, David F %A Buckheit, Karen %A Buckheit, Robert W %A Morrow, Kathleen M %K Administration, Intravaginal %K Adolescent %K Adult %K Anti-Infective Agents, Local %K Female %K Focus Groups %K HIV Infections %K Humans %K Interviews as Topic %K Patient Acceptance of Health Care %K Perception %K Qualitative Research %K Sexually Transmitted Diseases %K Time Factors %K Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies %X

Women's initial understandings and anticipated acceptability of long-acting vaginal gels as potential anti-HIV microbicides was investigated by exploring the perceptibility variables associated with prototype formulations. Four focus groups with 29 women, aged 18-45, were conducted to consider gel prototypes with varied physicochemical and rheological properties. Participants responded favorably to the concept of long-acting vaginal gels as microbicides. Distinctions in understandings and stated needs regarding product dosing, characteristics, and effectiveness offer valuable insights into product design. Long-acting vaginal gels capable of protecting against HIV/STIs will be a viable option among potential users, with dosing frequency being an important factor in willingness to use.

%B AIDS Behav %V 18 %P 862-70 %8 2014 May %G eng %N 5 %R 10.1007/s10461-013-0652-4