Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Rectal Douching And Implications For Rectal Microbicides Among Populations Vulnerable To Hiv In South America: A Qualitative Study, Jerome T. Galea, Janni J. Kinsler, John Imrie, César R. Nureña, Jorge Sánchez, William E. Cunningham

Social Work Faculty Publications

Objective: While gel-formulated rectal microbicides (RM) are the first to enter clinical trials, rectal douching in preparation for anal intercourse is a common practice; thus RMs formulated as douches may be a convenient alternative to gels. Nonetheless, little is known about potential users' thoughts regarding douche-formulated RMs or rectal douching practices, data that is needed to inform the advancement of douche-based RMs. This qualitative study examined thoughts regarding douches, their use as an RM and current douching practices among men who have sex with men and transgender women.

Methods: 12 focus groups and 36 in-depth interviews were conducted …