A randomized controlled trial to evaluate a structural intervention to promote the female condom in new York state
Exner, T.M.; Tesoriero, J.M.; Battles, H.B.; Hoffman, S.; Mantell, J.E.; Correale, J.; Adams-Skinner, J.; Shapiro, D.A.; Rowe, K.; Cotroneo, R.A.; Leu, C.-S.; Hunter, J.; Klein, S.J.
Aids and Behavior 16(5): 1121-1132
2012
ISSN/ISBN: 1573-3254 PMID: 22484992 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-012-0176-3Document Number: 535398
We conducted a structural intervention to promote the female condom (FC), comparing 44 agencies randomized to a Minimal Intervention (MI) . Intervention effects were evaluated via surveys with agency directors, counselors and clients at baseline and 12 months. Agency-level outcomes of the FC did not differ between the two interventions at follow-up. Counselors in the EI showed significantly greater gains in FC knowledge and positive attitudes, although there was no difference in the proportion of clients counseled on the FC, which significantly increased in both conditions. There was a greater increase in intention to use the FC among clients in EI agencies. Intervention effects were stronger in medical agencies. Findings suggest that making subsidized FCs available and assisting agencies to formulate action plans led to increased FC promotion. Limitations and implications for future research and intervention efforts are discussed.
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