If I participate, what do I have to do?
If you are eligible and choose to participate, you would be asked to visit our Research Nurses' Office to enroll.
You would be randomized to receive either a vaginal gel that contains carrageenan or a lubricant without carrageenan. You would be asked to use the assigned gels during vaginal intercourse for 12 months and to apply the gel every other day for the first month.
You would be asked to visit the clinic 7 times over 12 months for the collection of vaginal specimens for HPV testing. These samples will be self-collected in a private room at the clinic. Instructions will be available from the nurse. You would be asked to abstain from vaginal intercourse and gel use during the 48 hours prior to your visit. You would also complete a computerized questionnaire at the clinic.
You would update an online calendar regarding your sexual activities and gel use on a weekly basis.
Compensation
In appreciation of your time, you would be given $40-60 for each clinic visit and $2 for each completed week of the online calendar.
Confidentiality
HPV test results and the responses you give in the surveys would be treated in strict confidentiality. No names or other identifying information would be released.
Why your help is important
By participating in this study, you would contribute to our understanding of HPV prevention for women. Our results could help in the design of cancer prevention programs. Your participation would help to determine the best ways to prevent HPV infection and cervical cancer.