Predictors of using a microbicide-like product among adolescent girls.
OBJECTIVE
This study examined demographic, sexual history and weekly contextual variables, and perceptions about microbicides as predictors of microbicide-like product use.


METHODS
Adolescent girls (N = 208; 14-21 years) participated in a 6-month study in which they completed three face-to-face interviews and 24-weekly phone call interviews. Participants were given microbicide-like products (vaginal lubricants) and encouraged to use them with condoms when they had intercourse.


RESULTS
Of the girls, 75% had had a sexual opportunity to use the product. Using multi-variable logistic regression, the following variables independently predicted ever using the product: length of sexual experience, number of lifetime vaginal partners, and the Comparison to Condoms subscale on the Perceptions of Microbicides Scale. Using a mixed model repeated measure linear regression, the following variables independently predicted frequency of use: week of the study, age, condom frequency prior to the study, and three subscales on the Perceptions of Microbicide Scale: namely, the Comparison to Condoms subscale, the Negative Effects subscale, and the Pleasure subscale.


CONCLUSIONS
Most girls used the product, including those who were not protecting themselves with condoms. Girls' initial perceptions regarding the product predicted initial use and frequency of use. Further research should evaluate the best methods for supporting the use of these products by young or sexually less experienced girls.
Short
Mary B
MB
Department of Psychology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, Texas 77058, USA. shortmb@uhcl.edu
Succop
Paul A
PA
Ugueto
Ana M
AM
Rosenthal
Susan L
SL
D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D000328:Adult; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D017280:Condoms / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004338:Drug Combinations; D005260:Female; D005782:Gels; D005990:Glycerol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008055:Lipids / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012749:Sexually Transmitted Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014622:Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D004338:Drug Combinations; D005782:Gels; D008055:Lipids; C085472:Replens; D014622:Vaginal Creams, Foams, and Jellies; C052495:lubrin; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D005990:Glycerol