Women’s Perceptions of Novel 3-D Printed Vaginal Rings for Multipurpose Prevention

Intravaginal rings (IVRs) can be efficacious, user-controlled devices to prevent pregnancy and HIV. Understanding potential user preferences for device characteristics can promote device uptake and use by informing design optimization. We elicited sensory perceptions from a convenience sample of women aged 18–45 years from a large statewide health system to iteratively inform design of a novel 3D-printed multipurpose (contraception and HIV prevention) technology IVRs. We assessed reactions to varying IVR designs and colors in nine virtual focus groups. We modified designs and assessed perceptions of visual AND tactile aspects of modified IVR designs in 25 individual in-person interviews. Overall, women perceived texture, hue, size, comfort, and hygiene as important. Smoother surface topography was preferred for perceived ease of insertion and ability to “see what was on it” for cleanliness. Lighter hues were seen as “calming”. IVR size and pliability related most to perceived comfort, a priority for participants.