Ring-ing in the Future: Participant and Male Partner Perspectives Regarding Future Use of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring for HIV Prevention.

ABSTRACT

Women account for a disproportionate percentage of new HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa indicating a need for female-initiated HIV prevention options congruent with their lifestyles. The dapivirine vaginal ring for HIV prevention is one such option. We explored the interest of women, who used this ring during the Microbicide Trials Network's ASPIRE and HOPE studies, in using the ring post-licensure and what they perceived as important considerations for future use. We also explored perspectives of HOPE participants' male partners on their involvement in their partners' future ring use. Women appeared keen to use the ring in the future and expressed desires for easy access, support for both ongoing and new users and intense community engagement. In parallel, male partners indicated high levels of interest in supporting their partners' ring use and being involved in ring use decision making. These data offer important insights for ring rollout planning and engagement activities.