Expanding choice in sexual and reproductive health: a systematic scoping review of user perspectives on on-demand self-care products

Abstract

On-demand sexual and reproductive health (SRH) products are used or consumed on an as-needed basis, around specific and immediate sexual events, to reduce the risk of unwanted health outcomes. To date, understandings of how on-demand SRH products contribute to self-care are relatively under-explored. Our systematic scoping review of available published research explored acceptability of SRH on-demand self-care from the perspectives of users across diverse regions of the world. Studies from 20 countries across four WHO regions indicated strong acceptability of on-demand self-care SRH products due to compatibility with sex lives; ease of use; fewer side effects; accessibility of products; compatibility with daily life; and partner dynamics related to product use. Interest in and experiences with on-demand products varies for people in different phases of their life course. On-demand SRH products enable self-care through enhanced choice and agency; people-centred products and SRH service delivery; and more pleasurable, safer approaches to SRH. They support users to have satisfying sex lives, plan the families they want and stay healthy. The six emergent domains we identify can be used to position on-demand products into the market; engage and communicate with end-users in ways that enhance their use of safe, effective products most aligned to their needs and preferences across the life course; advocate for changes in policy and regulations that are more supportive of on-demand SRH products; and prioritise future investment in the on-demand product category.