Adolescent issues associated with knowledge of and access to topical microbicides

Topical microbicides could be a female-controlled method for prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Microbicides could offer girls a potential preventive option, if they are able to access them. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate girls', mothers', experienced healthcare providers', and medical students' views on adolescent girls' obtaining information about and acquiring microbicides and where adolescent girls would keep or carry a microbicide.

Focus groups were conducted and videotaped with each group of individuals. The videotapes were transcribed, and the transcriptions were coded for relevant themes.

Participants anticipated that adolescents would learn about microbicides from a variety of sources and that specific educational efforts for each of these sources (mothers, healthcare providers, and school-based sexuality education) would be needed. Healthcare providers stressed the importance of enhancing access by having both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) options. For nonprescription products, the participants felt that the microbicide should be in stores and venues to which adolescents typically go by themselves. A microbicide that was girl-friendly and adolescent-friendly consistently was highlighted by the participants. Participants thought this would increase discretion and decrease embarrassment. The location of keeping and carrying the microbicide was anticipated to be dependent on parents' knowledge of their adolescent's sexuality and the likelihood that parents search their adolescent's belongings.

Consideration of the adolescent-specific issues in the design of microbicides and marketing strategies may be crucial for adolescent adoption of this female-controlled method.