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Covert Use of Topical Microbicides: Implications for Acceptability and Use
Author(s) -
Woodsong Cynthia
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
perspectives on sexual and reproductive health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.818
H-Index - 93
eISSN - 1931-2393
pISSN - 1538-6341
DOI - 10.1363/3612704
Subject(s) - microbicides for sexually transmitted diseases , covert , medicine , computer science , environmental health , population , health services , linguistics , philosophy
The introduction of microbicides is still a few years away which affords researchers time to study the implications consequences and advisability of secret use. Covert use and its possible risks and benefits should be considered far in advance of product introduction. Well-informed introduction is paramount. Careful attention to product presentation and cultural context is necessary as some marketing strategies could either encourage or discourage covert use discourage use altogether or alienate male partners which could make the discovery of covert use more perilous for women. This paper discusses findings from research on contraceptive and condom use as well as microbicide studies to show how women decide to use a new product. The term "covert" is used in this paper since it is less associated with illicit or illegal activities than "stealth" or "clandestine." (excerpt)