Microbicide Acceptability among Female Sex Workers in Beijing, China: Results from a Pilot Study

Abstract Objectives: To explore attitudes toward hypothetical vaginal microbicides and willingness to use them among female sex workers (FSWs) in a district of Beijing, China, and to identify factors likely to affect acceptability and use of microbicides for HIV prevention among this population. Methods: An exploratory cross-sectional study using convenience sampling was conducted. A total of 54 FSWs were recruited from Shijingshan District in Beijing for a face-to-face interview. Main outcome variables were measured by a microbicide acceptability score, perception of HIV/STI risk and self-reported high-risk sexual behaviors, condom use, HIV/STI history, and self-reported experience of vaginal product use. Results: Mean score of microbicide acceptability in FSWs was 2.73, with a standard deviation (SD) of 0.46 (ranging from 1 to 4). Acceptability score varied by partner types (p = 0.025), history of HIV testing (p = 0.037), and concern about contracting an STI (p = 0.042). Covert use of microbicides in FS...