Associations between recent gender-based violence and pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, condom use practices, and negotiation of sexual practices among HIV-positive women.

BACKGROUND

This study sought to document the prevalence of recent gender-based violence (rGBV) among seropositive women and to determine the association between rGBV and pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), condom use, and negotiation of sexual practices.

METHODS

A total of 304 seropositive women recruited from HIV clinics in the southeastern United States who reported being sexually active in the previous 6 months with 1 partner were included in analyses. Gender-based violence during the previous 3 months, condom use, and negotiation of sexual practices were assessed. Biologic samples for pregnancy and STI testing were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 10.2% of women reported a history of rGBV. rGBV was related to inconsistent condom use practices, pregnancy, and abuse stemming from requests for condom use. No associations were found between rGBV and negotiation of sexual practices and STIs.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of rGBV among HIV-positive women emphasizes the need for screening of abuse and highlights the need for the design and implementation of integrated intervention approaches necessary in addressing the needs of this population.