Benefits of and Recommendations for Asynchronous Online Focus Group Methodology for Sexual and Reproductive Health Research with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and Other Sexuality- and Gender-Expansive People with a Cervix.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to characterize benefits of asynchronous online focus groups (AOFGs) for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other sexuality- and gender-expansive (LGBTQIA+) young adults with a cervix and to identify strategies for maximizing those benefits and optimizing data collection in order to increase equitable representation of this population in health research. Methods: From March to September 2022, we conducted six gender-stratified AOFGs with cisgender women, nonbinary people, and transgender men with a cervix ages 21-29 living in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Participants completed a questionnaire to evaluate AOFG procedures and experiences. Based on these data and our observations of AOFG engagement, we developed and evaluated strategies to optimize both data collection and participant benefit. Results: AOFGs provided participants with informational and instrumental support, connection through shared experiences, and opportunity for introspection. Participants expressed a strong desire for social interaction within AOFG discussions, and we identified several strategies that were effective in promoting engagement and interaction in AOFGs. Conclusion: AOFGs can facilitate inclusion in research of LGBTQIA+ individuals for whom other data collection methods are inaccessible, and may offer direct social and emotional benefits to participants. Promoting social interaction among participants is essential for optimizing these benefits. These findings offer important insight for AOFG methodology as a means of increasing equitable representation of LGBTQIA+ people in health research while offering direct and immediate benefits to participants.