Contraceptive use and method preference among women in Soweto, South Africa: the influence of expanding access to HIV care and treatment services

Are Contraceptive Method Preferences Stable? Measuring Change in the Preferred Method among Kenyan Women

Contraceptive preferences are important for reproductive outcomes, such as contraceptive continuation and pregnancy. Current approaches to measuring reproductive preferences in population surveys are limited to exploring only fertility preferences and implicitly assume that contracepting people are using a method they want. We know that people change their fertility preferences over the life course as a response to life events, but there is no information about changes in contraceptive preferences, given the limited evidence about the measurement and distribution of contraceptive preferences. In this study, we examined the extent of change in women's contraceptive preferences over one year and identified characteristics associated with this change in Kenya using three rounds of nationally representative longitudinal data. Over one year, 18 percent of contraceptive users and 46 percent of contraceptive nonusers reported changes in their preferred contraceptive. Experiencing a pregnancy or birth and changes in marital status were associated with changes in contraceptive preferences for users and nonusers. We found that contraceptive preferences are dynamic, suggesting that family planning programs should ensure people's access to various methods to respond to women's changing circumstances and preferences.

Contraception and intersection with HIV services in 11 high HIV burden sub-Saharan African countries: Results from the population-based HIV Impact Assessment cross-sectional studies conducted from 2015 to 2018

OBJECTIVE

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 3.7.1 addresses the importance of family planning. The objective of this paper is to provide information on family planning to policymakers to help increase access to contraceptive methods to women in sub-Saharan Africa.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Population-based HIV Impact Assessment studies conducted in 11 sub-Saharan African countries from 2015 to 2018 to assess the relationship between HIV services and family planning. Analyses were restricted to women aged 15-49 years who reported being sexually active within the past 12 months and had data on contraceptive use.

RESULTS

Approximately 46.4% of participants reported using any form of contraception; 93.6% of whom used modern contraceptives. Women with a positive HIV status were more likely to use contraceptives (P < 0.0001) than HIV-negative women. Unmet need was higher among women who were confirmed to be HIV-negative in Namibia, Uganda, and Zambia than confirmed to be positive. Women aged 15-19 years used contraception less than 40% of the time.

CONCLUSION

This analysis highlights crucial gaps in progress among HIV-negative and young women (aged 15-19 years). To provide access to modern contraception for all women, programs and governments need to focus on women who desire but do not have access to these family planning resources.

Contraceptive use and associated factors among women of reproductive age on antiretroviral therapy in Awabel Woreda health centers, Northwest Ethiopia

Background

The family planning options for reproductive-age women who are in antiretroviral therapy should consider different types of contraceptive methods including condom use. There is a high unmet need and unplanned pregnancies in Ethiopia among HIV-positive women. Attention was not given towards contraceptive use for HIV women in Ethiopia including the study area. The study aimed to assess contraceptive use and associated factors among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) on Antiretroviral therapy in Awabel Woreda, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 572 women of reproductive age who were receiving HIV care and treatment. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaire, entered by Epidata3.1 and exported to IBM SPSS for statistics version 20 for analysis.Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with contraceptive use and the presence of significant association was declared at p-value <0.05 and 95% confidence level.

Result

A total of 526 out of 572 women have responded, with a response rate of 91.9%. Two-thirds (66.5% (95% CI: 63.5, 69.5)) of the study participants were using contraceptive methods at the time of the survey. Women living in areas (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 1.95; 95% CI: 1.16, 3.72), and those who disclosed their HIV status to their partner (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 2.61; 95% CI: 1.37, 4.95) were more likely to use contraceptives. While Women (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.69) and their partners (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.34, 0.97) who had desire to have a child were less likely to use contraceptives.

Conclusions

The prevalence of contraceptive use among reproductive-age women who were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) was lower than a systematic review done in Ethiopia and higher than the national target. Intervention targeting on implementation of contraceptive methods, and counseling about contraceptives to address their question of fertility desire and knowledge were recommended.

Disease awareness and healthcare utilization in rural South Africa: a comparative analysis of HIV and diabetes in the HAALSI cohort

BACKGROUND

Studies from rural South Africa indicate that people living with HIV (PLHIV) may have better health outcomes than those without, potentially due to the frequent healthcare visits necessitated by infection. Here, we examined the association between HIV status and healthcare utilization, using diabetes as an illustrative comparator of another high-burden, healthcare-intensive disease.

METHODS

Our exposure of interest was awareness of positive disease status for both HIV and diabetes. We identified 742 individuals who were HIV-positive and aware of their status and 305 who had diabetes and were aware of their status. HIV-positive status was further grouped by viral suppression. For each disease, we estimated the association with (1) other comorbid, chronic conditions, (2) health facility visits, (3) household-level healthcare expenditure, and (4) per-visit healthcare expenditure. We used log-binomial regression models to estimate prevalence ratios for co-morbid chronic conditions. Linear regression models were used for all other outcomes.

RESULTS

Virally suppressed PLHIV had decreased prevalence of chronic conditions, increased public clinic visits [β = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.5, 0.7], and reduced per-visit private clinic spending [β = -60, 95% CI: -83, -6] compared to those without HIV. No differences were observed in hospitalizations and per-visit spending at hospitals and public clinics between virally suppressed PLHIV and non-PLHIV. Conversely, diabetic individuals had increased prevalence of chronic conditions, increased visits across facility types, increased household-level expenditures (β = 88 R, 95% CI: 29, 154), per-visit hospital spending (β = 54 R, 95% CI: 7, 155), and per-visit public clinic spending (β = 31 R, 95% CI: 2, 74) compared to those without diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that older adult PLHIV may visit public clinics more often than their HIV-negative counterparts but spend similarly on a per-visit basis. This provides preliminary evidence that the positive health outcomes observed among PLHIV in rural South Africa may be explained by different healthcare engagement patterns. Through our illustrative comparison between PLHIV and diabetics, we show that shifting disease burdens towards chronic and historically underfunded diseases, like diabetes, may be changing the landscape of health expenditure inequities.

Correlated depressive symptoms within seroconcordant, expectant partners living with HIV in Zambézia Province, Mozambique: a cross-sectional study

Approximately 15% of people with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa have comorbid depression, which impacts treatment outcomes. We describe predictors of baseline depressive symptoms in 1079 female and 1079 male participants in a cluster-randomized trial in Zambézia Province, Mozambique from November 2017 to December 2020. We modeled each partners' depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]) using proportional odds models adjusted for enrollment date, age, body mass index [BMI], partner's PHQ-9 score, district, relationship status, education, occupation, WHO HIV clinical stage, and antiretroviral therapy use history. A post hoc analysis assessed covariate-adjusted rank correlation between partner depressive symptoms. Females were younger than males (median 23 vs. 28 years) and more likely to report no education (20.7% vs. 7.9%). Approximately 10% screened positive for depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 10). Partner depressive symptoms were predictive of higher participant PHQ-9 scores. A male partner PHQ-9 score of 10 (versus 5) increased the odds that the female partner would have a higher PHQ-9 score (adjusted odds ratio: 7.25, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 5.43-9.67). Partner PHQ-9 scores were highly correlated after covariate adjustment (Spearman's rho 0.65, 95% CI 0.57-0.72). Interventions aimed to reduce depressive symptoms and improve HIV-related outcomes during pregnancy should address both partners' depressive symptoms.

Prevalence and correlates of induced abortion: results of a facility-based cross-sectional survey of parturient women living with HIV in South Africa

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of studies examining the prevalence and correlates of induced abortion among women living with HIV. Our study fills this gap by examining the prevalence and correlates of induced abortion among parturient women living with HIV in Eastern Cape, South Africa.

METHODS

We analysed cross-sectional survey data of the East London Prospective Cohort Study, which took place between September 2015 and May 2016 in three large maternity facilities in the Buffalo/Amathole districts of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A total of 1709 parturient women living with HIV who gave birth over the study period were recruited. We carried out descriptive and inferential statistics.

RESULTS

The prevalence of induced abortion was 19% (95% CI: 17.2-20.9%), but varied by women's socio-demographic characteristics. Induced abortion prevalence was higher among women aged 25 years and over (21.4%), than among women aged less than 25 years (11.0%). Those ever married or cohabiting (26.8%) reported a higher level of induced abortion than those never-married women (15.6%). Those already diagnosed HIV positive before their index pregnancy (20.2%) had a higher prevalence of induced abortion than those diagnosed during their index pregnancy (14.1%). In the adjusted logistic regression, women were more likely to have ever induced abortion if they were ever married or cohabiting (aOR; 1.86 95% CI; 1.43-2.41), ever smoked (aOR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.01-2.28) and diagnosed with HIV before their index pregnancy (aOR:1.44; 95% CI: 1.02-2.05) but less likely if younger than 25 years (aOR; 0.51 95% CI:0.35-0.73).

CONCLUSION

About one in five women living with HIV had ever induced abortion in the study settings, indicating that abortion service is one of the main reproductive health services needed by women living with HIV in South Africa. This is an indication that the need for abortion is somewhat high in this group of women. The finding, therefore, highlights the need for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to address the unmet need for contraception among women living with HIV to prevent unintended pregnancy.

Aldosterone and angiotensin II profiles in young black and white women using different hormonal contraceptives: the African-PREDICT study

Exogenous estrogens and progestins may affect the components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Changes in ventricular blood volume are associated with increased secretion of N-terminal pro-hormone B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), which may also be affected by hormonal contraceptives. In this study, we aimed to compare components of the RAAS and NT-proBNP between groups using different hormonal contraceptives, including the combination pill, the injection or implant, and controls (no contraception) in black and white women of fertile age (20 - 30 years). Secondly, we determined whether blood pressure and NT-proBNP are associated with the RAAS components. We included 397 black and white women not using contraceptives, 120 using the combination pill, and 103 receiving an injection/implant. RAAS Triple-A analysis was carried out with LC-MS/MS quantification, and blood pressure measurements (ABPM) taken over 24 h. We found that serum aldosterone was higher (475.7 vs. 249.2 pmol/L; p < 0.001) in the combination pill group than in the no contraception group of white women. The aldosterone-angiotensin II ratio (AA2) was higher (5.4 vs. 2.5; p < 0.001) in the combination pill group than in the no contraception group. In the black women using the combination pill, we found a borderline-positive and borderline-negative association between 24-h systolic blood pressure and NT-proBNP with equilibrium (eq) Ang II, respectively. In white women using the combination pill, only CRP contributed positively and independently to NT-proBNP. To conclude, activation of RAAS by different hormonal contraceptives may increase future risk for the development of hypertension in young black and white women.

The sexual and reproductive health needs of young people living with HIV in Gauteng, South Africa

Background

HIV has been the focus of health systems strengthening in South Africa for the past two decades. Despite progress, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) challenges such as contraception, condom usage and HIV disclosure of young people living with HIV (YPLHIV) remain inadequately addressed. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to describe the SRH needs of YPLHIV and make recommendations to address identified gaps.

Objectives

To explore and describe the SRH needs and potential systemic gaps of YPLHIV with an aim to make recommendations for improvement and contribute to the development of an integrated approach to SRH care in HIV programming.

Method

A quantitative cross-sectional research design with purposive sampling was utilised. YPLHIV were recruited from five healthcare facilities in Gauteng, South Africa, for face-to-face interviews.

Results

One hundred and six YPLHIV with a median age of 18 years were enrolled. A large proportion (57/106; 53.8%) of respondents reported being either single or double orphaned. Sex-related discussions with parents were reported by only 36/106 (34.0%). History of teenage pregnancy was reported in 39/70 (56.0%) of female respondents. A high prevalence of multiple sexual partnerships 41/97 (42.2%) was noted. Consensual partner HIV disclosure was low at 47/97 (48.4%) and the male gender was associated with low 10/35 (28.6%) disclosure of serostatus to sexual partners.

Conclusion

Multiple SRH needs were identified. Interventions are needed to improve parental guidance on SRH issues, increase contraception knowledge and access, and provide better male-centred care.

Consistent Condom Utilization and its Associated Factors among Sexually Active Female Anti-Retro Viral Treatment Users in Finoteselam District Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2018

Consistent condom utilization is the key strategy to prevent new HIV strain transmissions among ART users. There are limited evidences on consistent condom utilization among women who are on ART in Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted among sexually active female ART users from June to August, 2018. Data were collected using a systematic random sampling data collection method. The multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify the predictors for the outcome Results: study indicated that 137(34.2%) women reported that they were using condom for the last three months, of whom 81 (59.1% (n = 137)) used condoms consistently. Respondents` age group from 21-30 (AOR = 4.381, 95%CI = 1.05, 18.331), Counseling about condom utilization (ARO = 9.442, 95% CI = 4.387, 20.32) and husbands` educational status “diploma and above” (AOR = 3.65, 95% CI = 1.007, 13.227) were significantly associated with condom utilization.

Dual Contraceptive Use and Factor Associated with People Living with HIV/AIDS: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction

A dual contraceptive method is the usage of any modern contraceptive method with male or female condoms which could lower sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy. Ethiopian standard utilization of dual contraceptive is low. The hassle is more severe for HIV/AIDS-infected people. Therefore, this review was aimed at assessing dual contraceptive utilization and factor associated with people living with HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia.

Method

International databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Hinari, Embase, African Journals Online, Scopus, and Google Scholar) and Ethiopian university repository online have been covered in this review. Microsoft Excel was used for extraction, and the Stata 14 software program was used for analysis. We detected the heterogeneity between studies using the Cochran Q statistic and I² test. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plot and Egger's and Begg's tests.

Result

The overall prevalence of dual contraceptive use among people living with HIV/AIDS was 27.73% (95% CI: 20.26-35.19) in Ethiopia. Discussion with the partner (OR: 3.78, 95% CI: 3.08-4.69), HIV status disclosure to the spouse/partner (OR: 2.810, 95% CI: 2.26-3.48), postdiagnosis counseling (OR: 5.00, 95% CI: 3.71-6.75), schooling in secondary and above education (OR: 3.78, 95% CI: 2.41-5.93), partner involvement in counseling (OR: 2.76, 95% CI: 1.99-3.82), urban residence (OR: 2.84, 95% CI 2.03-3.94), and having no fertility desire (OR: 4.01, 95% CI 2.91-5.57) were significantly associated with dual contraceptive use.

Conclusion

Dual contraceptive utilization among people living with HIV/AIDS was found to be low in Ethiopia. This will be a significant concern unless future intervention focuses on rural residence, involvement of the partner in postdiagnosis counseling, encouraging the people living with HIV/AIDS to disclose HIV status, and discussion with the partner. Providing counseling during the antenatal and postnatal period also enhances dual contraceptive use.

Dual contraceptive utilization and determinant factors among HIV positive women in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis, 2020

Background

Dual contraceptive is the use of a barrier like condom along with any modern contraceptive methods which has double significance for the prevention STI including HIV and unintended pregnancy. The prevalence and determinants of dual contraceptive utilization described by different studies were highly inconsistent in Ethiopia. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and determinants of dual contraceptive utilization among HIV positive women in Ethiopia.

Methods

International database mainly Pub Med, Google scholar, HINARI, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, AJOL was applied to identify original studies. STATA software version 14 was applied to analyze the pooled prevalence of dual contraceptive. I² test statistics was computed to check the presence of heterogeneity across the studies and eggers test was used to identify publication bias. The pooled prevalence of dual contraceptive utilization was estimated by using a random effects model. The associations between determinants and dual contraceptive utilization were evaluated by using both random and fixed effect models.

Result

A total 9 studies with 9168 HIV positive women were enrolled in this study. The pooled prevalence of dual contraceptive utilization among HIV positive women in Ethiopia was 26.14% (95% CI 21.20–31.08). Disclosure of HIV status (OR = 4.18,95%CI:2.26–7.72), partner involvement in post-test counselling (OR = 2.31,95%CI:1.63–3.25), open discussion about dual contraceptive with partner (OR = 4.27 95% CI:1.69–10.77), provision of counselling on dual contraceptives by health care provider (OR = 4.47,95% CI:3.81–5.24) and CD4 count > 350 cells/ mm³ (OR = 3.87,95%CI:3.53–4.23) were among the significant factors associated with dual contraceptive utilization.

Conclusion

The overall prevalence of dual contraceptive utilization among HIV positive women was significantly low. Disclosure of HIV status, partner involvement in post-test counselling, open discussion about dual contraceptive with partner, counselling on dual contraceptive by health care provider and CD4 count > 350 cells/ mm³ were positively affect dual contraceptive utilization. This study implies the need to develop plans and policies to improve partner involvement posttest counseling, integrate the counseling and provision of dual contraceptive at ART clinic at each level of health system.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40834-021-00161-w.

Dual Contraceptive Utilization and Associated Factors Among Reproductive-Age Women on Anti-Retroviral Therapy at Hospitals in Central Ethiopia

Background

Ethiopia is one of the Sub-Saharan African countries with an increasingly risky sexual practice and mostly affected by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) epidemic. Dual protection is an important preventive approach which can prevent both unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the dual contraceptive utilization and associated factors among reproductive-age women on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) in central Ethiopia.

Methods

An-institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among 311 women on ART at public hospitals of West Shewa Zone from June to September 2019. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. A pretested structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The data were entered into Epi data version 3.1 and exported to IBM SPSS statistical software version 25 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis were computed. Odds ratio along with 95% confidence interval was computed to ascertain the association.

Results

The prevalence of dual contraceptive utilization among women on ART was 21.4% (95% CI: 16.8-25.9). Age of respondents between 15 and 24 years [AOR=8.35, (95% CI: 3.12-17.78)], living in urban [AOR=2.59, 95% CI: 1.15-4.22], separated women [AOR=2.28, 95% CI (1.26-5.04)], had post-diagnosis counselling on family planning [AOR=5.33, 95% CI: 1.52-18.68], disclosed HIV status [AOR=5.98, 95% CI: 1.63-21.93], freely discuss with their husband [AOR=4.22, 95% CI, 1.84-12.36], have no fertility desire [AOR=2.46, (95% CI: 1.34-6.44)] were significantly associated with dual contraceptive utilization.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The overall magnitude of dual contraceptive utilization among women on ART was found to be low. Factors like age, residence, marital status, post-diagnosis counselling, disclosure of HIV status, and free discussion with husband were significantly associated with dual contraceptive method utilization. Therefore, it is necessary to expand the range of strategies and tools available to married and single women's for protecting themselves from being infected with other strains and pregnancy. The concerned stakeholders also should emphatically consider those identified factors for intervention.

Provision of immediate postpartum contraception to women living with HIV in the Eastern Cape, South Africa; a cross-sectional analysis

BACKGROUND

Universal access to contraception is an important strategy adopted by the South African government to reduce the high rate of unintended pregnancies, especially in women living with HIV. In this article, we describe the choices of contraception and also, examine the influencing factors of the choices of contraception in the immediate postpartum period in parturient women with HIV in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.

METHODS

In this prospective cross-sectional study, 1617 parturient women with HIV completed a survey on the choice of contraception received in the immediate postpartum period (within 72 h) across three large maternity services in the Eastern Cape between September 2015 to May 2016. Additional information was extracted from their medical records. Choices of contraception were categorised as; short-acting (injectables), long-acting reversible (intrauterine device and implants) and permanent contraception (tubal ligation). Adjusted and unadjusted logistic regression models were employed to determine the influencing factors of the choices of contraception received by the cohort.

RESULTS

Participants were predominantly single (69.1%), unemployed (75.1%), had a grade 7-12 level of education (88.4%) and were HIV positive before their index pregnancy (81.3%). The prevalence of immediate postpartum contraception was high (n = 1507; 93.2%) with Injectables being the preferred choice in the majority of the participants (n = 1218; 75.3%). After controlling for all relevant covariates, single marital status was associated with a higher likelihood of immediate postpartum contraceptive initiation (AOR; 1.82 95% CI 1.10-3.03). Overall, women were more likely to initiate a long-acting reversible and irreversible methods when older than 35 years and having had more than two children.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a high prevalence of immediate postpartum contraception with a preference for Injectables in the study setting. Long-term monitoring of this cohort will elucidate on contraceptive discontinuation and risk of unintended pregnancies in the region. Ensuring universal access to contraceptives is an important strategy to reduce the rate of unintended pregnancies at the population level. This strategy was adopted by the South African government with a vision of stemming the tide of unintended pregnancies among women living with HIV. In this study, the choices of contraception adopted by women living with HIV following the delivery of their babies were explored. In addition, the study highlights the factors that predict these choices. Participants were asked the choice of contraception they had received prior to being discharged from the maternity centres where they had delivered their babies. The various types of contraception were then categorised by their duration of action. Three distinct groups emerged; short-acting injectables, long acting reversible contraceptives and permanent methods. Of the 1617 women included in the study, 1117 were single and 1314 knew their HIV status prior to the onset of the index pregnancy. Almost all the women (1507 out of 1617) received one form of contraception before leaving the hospital. Many women (1218 out of 1617) chose injectable contraception (short-acting contraception) over the other types of contraception. Women who were older than 34 years and who had three or more children were more likely to choose a long-acting reversible contraceptive and permanent method over the short-acting contraception or nothing. In conclusion, given the short duration of action of the predominant method adopted by these women, a long-term follow up of the study participants will provide more information on the continued use of contraception and risk for unintended pregnancies.

Contraceptive Use and Method Preferences among HIV Positive Women in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Preventing unintended pregnancies among HIV positive women has a vital role to prevent mother to child transmission. Besides, increasing access to contraceptives has a number of economical importance and reducing the costs for mitigating the unintended pregnancy consequences. Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing the contraceptive use and method of preference among HIV positive women in Ethiopia.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis reporting guideline was applied. Articles searched from the Scopus, Pubmed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, AJOL, Hinari, and Google scholar were included in this review. The Stata 11 software was used to compute the analysis. Heterogeneity of the studies was detected using the Cochran Q test and I 2 test statistics. Egger's test was used to check the evidence of publication bias within the studies. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis was computed with the evidence of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Ten thousand one hundred twenty one (10121) women living with HIV/AIDS were recruited in this study. The national estimated prevalence of contraceptive use among HIV positive women in Ethiopia was 57.78% (95% CI: 48.53-67.03). Injectables and male condom were the most preferred contraceptives accounted for 36.00% (95% CI: 6.64-45.35) and 32.74% (95% CI: 21.08-44.40), respectively. Discussion with husband/partner (AOR: 4.70, 95% CI: 2.18-10.12), disclosure of HIV status to spouse/partner (AOR: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.55-3.06), ever counseled for modern contraceptives (AOR: 2.79, 95% CI: 2.01-3.88), attending secondary and above education (AOR: 3.12, 95% CI: 2.15-4.51), and having more than one live child (AOR: 2.61, 95% CI: 1.86-3.66) were increasing the likelihood of contraceptive use whereas not currently married women (AOR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.16-0.34) was decreases the odds of contraceptive use.

CONCLUSION

In Ethiopia, more than half of the women living with HIV/AIDS were using contraceptives. Discussion with husband/partner, disclosure of HIV status to spouse/partner, ever counseled for modern contraceptives, attending secondary and above education, and having more than one live child were increasing the uptake of contraceptives among HIV positive women. Partner discussion, having adequate information towards contraceptive use, and having desired number of child could increase the utilization; as a result, obstetric complication with HIV positive women due to unintended pregnancy is significantly decreasing.

Contraceptive use among sexually active women living with HIV in western Ethiopia

Introduction

Contraception can help to meet family planning goals for women living with HIV (WLHIV) as well as to support the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV (PMTCT). However, there is little research into the contraceptive practice among sexually active WLHIV in Ethiopia. Therefore, we aimed to examine contraceptive practice among sexually active WLHIV in western Ethiopia and identify the factors that influenced such practice using the Health Belief Model (HBM).

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional survey of 360 sexually active WLHIV was conducted from 19^th March to 22^nd June 2018 in western Ethiopia. The eligible participants were WLHIV aged between 18 and 49 years who reported being fecund and sexually active within the previous six months but were not pregnant and not wanting to have another child within two years. Modified Poisson regression analyses were conducted to identify factors that influenced contraceptive practice among sexually active WLHIV in western Ethiopia.

Results

Among sexually active WLHIV (n = 360), 75% used contraception with 25% having unmet needs. Of the contraceptive users, 44.8% used injectables, 37.4% used condoms and 28.5% used implants. Among 152 recorded births in the last five years, 17.8% were reported as mistimed and 25.7% as unwanted. Compared to WLHIV having no child after HIV diagnosis, having two or more children after HIV diagnosis (Adjusted Prevalence Ratio [APR] = 1.31; 95%CI 1.09–1.58) was associated with increased risk of contraceptive practice. However, sexually active unmarried WLHIV (APR = 0.69; 95%CI 0.50–0.95) were less likely to use any contraception compared to their sexually active married counterparts. Importantly, high perceived susceptibility (APR = 1.49; 95%CI 1.20–1.86) and medium perceived susceptibility (APR = 1.55; 95%CI 1.28–1.87) towards unintended pregnancy were associated with higher risk of contraceptive use than WLHIV with low perceived susceptibility.

Conclusions

Although contraceptive use amongst sexually active WLHIV was found to be high, our findings highlight the need for strengthening family planning services given the high rate of unintended pregnancies, the high rate of unmet needs for contraception, as well as the lower efficacy with some of the methods. Our findings also suggest that the HBM would be a valuable framework for healthcare providers, programme planners and policymakers to develop guidelines and policies for contraceptive counselling and choices.

Evidence on factors influencing contraceptive use and sexual behavior among women in South Africa: A scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Contraceptive use and sexual health behavior remain a prominent public health concern in South Africa (SA). Despite many government interventions, unintended pregnancies and termination of pregnancies remain relatively high. This review aimed to map evidence on factors influencing contraceptive use and sexual behavior in SA.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review guided by Arksey and O'Malley's framework. We searched for articles from the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, American Doctoral Dissertations via EBSCO host, Union Catalogue of Theses and Dissertations (UCTD) and SA ePublications via SABINET Online and World Cat Dissertations, Theses via OCLC and Google Scholar. Studies published from January 1990 to March 2018 were included. We used the Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) framework and the PRISMA chart to report the screening of results. The Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT) version 11 and ACCODS tools were used to determine the quality of the included studies.

RESULTS

A total of 2030 articles were identified by our search criteria for title screening. Only 21 studies met our inclusion criteria and were included in quality assessment stage. We found that knowledge of a contraceptive method, length of a relationship, sexual debut, age difference between partners availability of a contraceptive method, long waiting hours, and nurse's attitudes toward human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive or younger clients predict whether or not women use a contraceptive method or improve sexual behavior.

CONCLUSION

There remains a necessity for improving educational programs aimed at transferring knowledge on contraceptives and sexual behavior to both women and their male counterparts, alongside the public health systems' improvements.

Men's motivation for contraceptive use in Inanda township, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Men's involvement in sexual and reproductive health is under-researched in South Africa despite evidence to suggest that men are key decision-makers in various household matters. Against this background, this study aimed to explore men's perspectives on contraceptive use in a South African township with a focus on motivations for contraception use and the challenges men face in using contraceptives. In-depth interviews were conducted with a sample of 20 men. Findings suggest that awareness of contraception among men is high and attitudes towards contraceptives are generally favourable. Contraceptive use is strongly influenced by the perceived risk of unplanned pregnancy and HIV infection. Condoms are the most commonly known and used method of contraception by men. Men complained that there are limited contraceptive options for them and consistent condom use remains difficult. To increase the uptake and use of contraceptives, sexual and reproductive programmes should fully include men in design and delivery. In the longer term, investment in the development of a wider range of contraceptive methods will increase options for men.

Modern family planning use among people living with HIV/AIDS: a facility based study in Ethiopia

INTRODUCTION

Despite increasing efforts to address the reproductive health needs of persons living with Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus (HIV), a high unmet need for contraception exists among HIV+ women in sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, Ethiopia promotes integration of family planning (FP) services in to HIV chronic care. Yet the contraceptive prevalence rate among clients remains low. The objective of the study was to assess the role of socio-cultural factors on modern family planning use among HIV+ clients attending Anti-Retroviral Therapy clinics in Addis Ababa sub-cities.

METHODS

The study involved a facility based cross sectional survey. The ten sub cities were initially categorized/stratified into 5 based on direction (East, West, South, North and Central) and from each category one sub city was randomly selected. The total sample size was proportionally allocated to the selected health facilities according to previous monthly average client load per health center. Participants were selected using simple random sampling technique during their routine visit at the health centers. Data were collected through a semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were generated and results considered significant at 95% confidence level using STATA version 14.0.

RESULTS

Six hundred and thirty-six clients participated in the study. Majority of them were age between 30-39 years. Though majority, 607 (95.4%) participants approved the use of modern FP method, current use rate stood at 39%. Condom was the most (14.5%) commonly used single method. The odds of FP use by participants who disclosed their HIV status were almost twice that of their counterparts (AOR= 1.84; 95% CI: 1.14, 2.95). Participants who held discussion with their spouse/partners concerning FP, irrespective of the frequency had an odd of more than four when using FP than their counterparts (AO= 4.35; 95% CI: 2.69, 7.04).

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that 6 out of every 10 HIV+ clients are not currently using FP methods. Disclosure of HIV status as well as open discussion with spouse/partner were positively associated with family planning use. These study findings call for comprehensive and client focus FP education and counseling in line with disclosure of HIV status and dialogue with spouse/partner in order to increase uptake and utilization of FP among clients. Partners have a great influence on the use and choice of FP methods, so their views are paramount.

The Empower Nudge lottery to increase dual protection use: a proof-of-concept randomised pilot trial in South Africa

The objective of this study is to measure the preliminary efficacy of a pilot intervention, grounded in behavioural economics, increasing adherence of dual protection (simultaneous use of effective modern contraception and a barrier method, such as a condom) to protect against HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancy. Between 2015 and 2016, 100 women aged 18-40 years, seeking post-abortion care in Cape Town, South Africa were recruited to Empower Nudge, a randomised controlled trial to test a lottery incentive intervention designed to increase dual protection. At baseline, the mean age of participants was 27 years; 82% of them were from South Africa; 58% self-identified as Black African; average education completed was 11.7 years. At three months, assignment to the lottery intervention was associated with higher odds of returning for study visits (OR: 6.0; 95%CI: 2.45 to 14.7, p < 0.01), higher condom use (OR: 4.5; 95%CI: 1.43 to 14.1; p < 0.05), and higher use of dual protection (OR: 3.16; 95%CI: 1.01 to 9.9; p < 0.05). Only 60% of the study population returned after three months and only 38% returned after six months. Women who receive post-abortion care represent a neglected population with an urgent need for HIV and pregnancy prevention. Dual protection is a critically important strategy for this population. Lottery-based behavioural economics strategies may offer possible ways to increase dual protection use in this population. Further research with larger samples, longer exposure time, and more sites is needed to establish fully powered efficacy of lottery incentives for dual protection; using objective verification for monitoring.

The role of counseling on modern contraceptive utilization among HIV positive women: the case of Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Over 90% of the children with Human Immunodeficiency Virus are infected through the mother to child transmission process according to literatures. Preventing unintended pregnancy by using contraceptive methods is crucial for reducing maternal and child mortality and morbidity. Here we set out to assess the prevalence and associated factors of modern contraceptive utilization among sexually active reproductive age women attending Anti-Retroviral Therapy clinics in Amhara Region referral hospitals in 2016.

Methods

An institution based cross sectional study was carried out from April to July 2016 surveying women of reproductive age attending the Anti-Retroviral Therapy clinics in the five Amhara Region referral hospitals. A pretested and semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. EpiInfo7 and SPSS version 20 soft wares were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. Significant associations were identified on the basis of the adjusted odds ratio, with 95% Confidence Interval, and p value ≤0.05, was taken as statistically significant.

Result

The proportion of women utilizing modern contraceptives was 47.7% with (95% CI: 43, 52.5%), the male condom being the most (64.2%) utilized method. The use of the contraceptive methods was most prevalent among women 15–24 years of age (AOR = 6.5, 95% CI: 2–10) and age of 25–34 (AOR = 3, 95% CI: 1.6–5.5), having an urban residence (AOR = 0.095, 95% CI: 0.03–0.28), having discussed contraceptives with partner (AOR = 7, 95% CI: 5.3–11.9), receiving counseling from health care providers (AOR = 4.8, 95% CI: 1.8–7), previous history of contraceptive utilization (AOR = 5.6, 95% CI: 2.6–8.3), and with CD4 count >500mm³/dl (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.3–4.3).

Conclusion

The proportion of women utilizing contraceptive has been low in Amhara Region referral hospitals. Encouraging patients to discuss about contraception with partners and repeated counseling by health care providers may strengthen contraceptive utilization.

Contraceptive Preference Among Women at Risk of HIV Acquisition in a Preparatory Screening Study for a Phase III Microbicide Trial in South Western Uganda

Contraceptive preferences of women at risk for HIV acquisition are not well documented. We report on contraceptive choices among women residing in small townships in southwestern Uganda. This was part of preparatory efforts for recruitment into the Ring Study, a phase 3 microbicide trial, between July 2013 and October 2014. Clinicians provided contraceptives per a woman's choice. HIV testing and screening for other sexually transmitted infections were done at first contact and at screening for the trial. Contraceptive choice was summarized by demographics and regression analysis to show factors associated with use of the injectable method. Of 6725 women contacted, 489 were prescreened. Of these 489 women, most (306, 63%) were already using contraception. Injectables were most preferred (58.7%), followed by implants (23.9%). Women living with a regular sexual partner preferred the injectable method (61.0%, P = 0.06), compared with other methods. Women at risk for HIV infection are willing to initiate use of modern contraceptives, which may reduce study dropout during intervention trials due to unintended pregnancy. Registration no: NCT01539226.

Contraceptive use and method preference among HIV-positive women in Amhara region, Ethiopia

Background

Providing preferred methods of contraceptive for HIV-positive women and avoiding unintended pregnancy is one of the primary means of preventing mother to child transmission of HIV. This study assessed the prevalence of contraceptive use and method preference among HIV-positive women in Amhara region, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among HIV-positive women in three referral hospitals of Amhara region. Data were collected by interviewing HIV-positive women using a pre-tested and structured questionnaire. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with contraceptive use, and odd ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated to measure the strength of association.

Results

A total of 803 women living with HIV (with a response rate of 95.4%) were interviewed. The mean age of the study participants was 32.2 years (SD ± 6.2 years). The prevalence of current contraceptive use was 30.3% (95% CI: 27.0–33.7%). The preferred and most commonly used contraceptive methods were injectable (42.8%) and male condom (32.9%). Younger age group (15–24 years) (AOR = 9.67; 95%CI: 3.45, 27.10), one or more number of living children (AOR = 4.01; 95%CI: 2.07, 7.79), HIV diagnosis > 2–4 years (AOR = 2.37; 95%CI: 1.10, 5.08), and having high CD4 count > 500 cell/ul (AOR = 3.25; 95% CI: 1.42, 7.44) were significantly associated with contraceptive use.

Conclusion

The prevalence of contraceptive use among HIV-positive women in Amhara region referral hospitals is low, which suggests a high risk of unintended pregnancy. Injectable and male condoms are the most preferred type of contraceptive methods. Thus, it is better to integrate these contraceptive methods with ART clinic.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12905-018-0608-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Prevalence and determinants of unplanned pregnancy in HIV-positive and HIV-negative pregnant women in Cape Town, South Africa: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Prevention of unplanned pregnancy is a crucial aspect of preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission. There are few data investigating how HIV status and use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) may influence pregnancy planning in high HIV burden settings. Our objective was to examine the prevalence and determinants of unplanned pregnancy among HIV-positive and HIV-negative women in Cape Town, South Africa.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis.

SETTINGS

Single primary-level antenatal care clinic in Cape Town, South Africa.

PARTICIPANTS

HIV-positive and HIV-negative pregnant women, booking for antenatal care from March 2013 to August 2015, were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Unplanned pregnancy was measured at the first antenatal care visit using the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy (LMUP). Analyses examined LMUP scores across four groups of participants defined by their HIV status, awareness of their HIV status prior to the current pregnancy and/or whether they were using antiretroviral therapy (ART) prior to the current pregnancy.

RESULTS

Among 2105 pregnant women (1512 HIV positive; 593 HIV negative), median age was 28 years, 43% were married/cohabiting and 20% were nulliparous. Levels of unplanned pregnancy were significantly higher in HIV-positive versus HIV-negative women (50% vs 33%, p<0.001); and highest in women who were known HIV positive but not on ART (53%). After adjusting for age, parity and marital status, unplanned pregnancy was most common among women newly diagnosed and women who were known HIV positive but not on ART (compared with HIV-negative women, adjusted OR (aOR): 1.43; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.94 and aOR: 1.57; 95% CI 1.13 to 2.15, respectively). Increased parity and younger age (<24 years) were also associated with unplanned pregnancy (aOR: 1.42; 95% CI 1.25 to 1.60 and aOR: 1.83; 95% CI 1.23 to 2.74, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

We observed high levels of unplanned pregnancy among HIV-positive women, particularly among those not on ART, suggesting ongoing missed opportunities for improved family planning and counselling services for HIV-positive women.

A systematic review of contraceptive continuation among women living with HIV

BACKGROUND

Women living with HIV (WLHIV) experience high rates of unmet contraceptive need and unintended pregnancy. Contraceptive method-specific continuation rates and associated factors are critical for guiding providers tasked with both reproductive health (RH) and HIV care. We conducted this systematic review to determine whether contraceptive continuation rates differ between WLHIV and uninfected women and, for WLHIV, whether differences are impacted by method type, antiretroviral therapy use or other factors.

METHODS

We searched Ovid MEDLINE, POPLINE and PubMed.gov for studies published between January 1, 2000, and August 31, 2016. Inclusion criteria comprised prospective data of WLHIV, nonbarrier method continuation as an outcome measure, and recorded method switching and/or discontinuation.

RESULTS

Of 939 citations screened, 22 articles from 18 studies were eligible. For studies with comparator groups, data quality was moderate overall based on Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations and Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment scales. Of four studies comparing women by HIV serostatus, two showed higher rates of contraceptive continuation among WLHIV versus uninfected women, while two others detected lower continuation rates for the same comparison. Generally, baseline method continuation exceeded 60% for studies with >12months of follow-up. Studies providing contraception had higher continuation rates than studies not providing contraception, while women allocated to contraceptive methods in trials had similar continuation rates to those choosing contraceptive methods. Across all studies, continuation rates differed by method and context, with the copper intrauterine device showing greatest variability between sites (51%-91% continuation rates at ≥12months). Implant continuation rates were ≥86%, though use was low relative to other methods and limited to few studes.

CONCLUSIONS

Contraceptive continuation among WLHIV differs by method and context. More longitudinal studies with contraceptive continuation as a measured outcome following ≥12months are needed to strengthen integration of RH and HIV care.

The impact of programs for prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV on health care services and systems in sub-Saharan Africa - A review

BACKGROUND

The global scale-up of Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services is credited for a 52% worldwide decline in new HIV infections among children between 2001 and 2012. However, the epidemic continues to challenge maternal and paediatric HIV control efforts in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA), with repercussions on other health services beyond those directly addressing HIV and AIDS. This systematised narrative review describes the effects of PMTCT programs on other health care services and the implications for improving health systems in SSA as reported in the existing articles and scientific literature. The following objectives framed our review:To describe the effects of PMTCT on health care services and systems in SSA and assess whether the PMTCT has strengthened or weakened health systems in SSATo describe the integration of PMTCT and its extent within broader programs and health systems.

METHODS

Articles published in English and French over the period 1st January 2007 (the year of publication of WHO/UNICEF guidelines on global scale-up of the PMTCT) to 31 November 2016 on PMTCT programs in SSA were sought through searches of electronic databases (Medline and Google Scholar). Articles describing the impact (positive and negative effects) of PMTCT on other health care services and those describing its integration in health systems in SSA were eligible for inclusion. We assessed 6223 potential papers, reviewed 225, and included 57.

RESULTS

The majority of selected articles offered arguments for increased health services utilisation, notably of ante-natal care, and some evidence of beneficial synergies between PMTCT programs and other health services especially maternal health care, STI prevention and early childhood immunisation. Positive and negative impact of PMTCT on other health care services and health systems are suggested in thirty-two studies while twenty-five papers recommend more integration and synergies. However, the empirical evidence of impact of PMTCT integration on broader health systems is scarce. Underlying health system challenges such as weak physical and human resource infrastructure and poor working conditions, as well as social and economic barriers to accessing health services, affect both PMTCT and the health services with which PMTCT interacts.

CONCLUSIONS

PMTCT services increase to some extent the availability, accessibility and utilisation of antenatal care and services beyond HIV care. Vertical PMTCT programs work, when well-funded and well-managed, despite poorly functioning health systems. The beneficial synergies between PMTCT and other services are widely suggested, but there is a lack of large-scale evidence of this.

Contraceptive Choice and Use of Dual Protection Among Women Living with HIV in Canada: Priorities for Integrated Care

CONTEXT

Preventing unintended pregnancy and HIV transmission is important for women with HIV, but little is known about their contraceptive use, particularly under current antiretroviral therapy (ART) recommendations for treatment and prevention.

METHODS

The prevalence of contraceptive use and of dual protection was examined among 453 sexually active women with HIV aged 16-49 and enrolled in the Canadian HIV Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Cohort Study in 2013-2015; multivariable logistic regression was used to identify correlates of use. Two definitions of dual protection were assessed: the World Health Organization (WHO) definition (consistent condom use alongside another effective method) and an expanded definition (consistent condom use or a suppressed HIV viral load alongside an effective method).

RESULTS

Overall, 73% of women used effective contraceptives, primarily male condoms (45%) or tubal ligation (19%). Eighteen percent practiced WHO-defined dual protection, and 40% practiced dual protection according to the expanded definition. Characteristics positively associated with contraceptive use were younger age, having been pregnant, being heterosexual, being unaware of ART's HIV prevention benefits and having had partners of unknown HIV status (odds ratios, 1.1-6.7). Younger age and perceived inability to become pregnant were positively associated with both definitions of dual protection (1.04-3.3); additionally, WHO-defined dual protection was associated with perceiving HIV care to be women-centered and having had partners of unknown HIV status (2.0-4.1), and dual protection under the expanded definition was related to having been pregnant (2.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Future research should explore how sustained ART and broader contraceptive options can support women's sexual and reproductive health care needs.

Utilization of dual contraception method among reproductive age women on antiretroviral therapy in selected public hospitals of Northern Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Sexually transmitted infections are highly prevalent among pregnant women in Africa. Among the incidence of HIV infection in children, 90% of the infection is attributable to their mothers. Ethiopia is one of the countries with an increasing risky sexual behavior and the most affected by the HIV epidemic. If prevention of mother to child transmission focuses on increasing contraception, it will prevent more than 29% of HIV infection at birth. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess utilization of dual contraceptive  method and associated factors among reproductive age women on antiretroviral therapy in selected public hospitals of Mekelle town, Northern Ethiopia.

METHODS

Institution based cross-sectional survey was conducted in selected public hospitals of Mekelle among women under antiretroviral therapy from March 1-April 31, 2016. We used a systematic sampling technique to select 331 women. A pretested interviewer administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The data were entered in to Epi data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis was computed. Odds ratio along with 95% CI was computed to ascertain the association. Statistical tests at p-value of < 0.05 were considered as cut off point to determine statistical significance.

RESULTS

Only 51(15.7%) of participants have utilized dual contraception method. Being single[AOR 5.43, 95% CI (1.61, 18.32)] and cohabitated [AOR 6.06; 95% CI: (2.16, 16.95)] in marital status, having HIV negative partner [AOR 4.44; 95% CI: (1.23, 16.04)], exposure to post diagnosis counseling [AOR 3.03; 95% CI: 1.34, 6.80], disclosed HIV status [AOR 6.06; 95% CI: (1.78, 20.87)] and discussing safer sex with partner [AOR 6.96; 95% CI: (2.75, 16.62)] were positively associated with utilization of dual contraceptive method.

CONCLUSION

The overall magnitude of dual contraceptive use is still low in this study. This will be a great concern on the transmission of the virus from mother to babies and partners and risk of complications following unintended pregnancy. This will continue to present as major public health problems in the region unless future interventions focuses on the barriers through tailored counseling and husband involvement in all aspects of the HIV/AIDS care.

Pregnancy incidence and intention after HIV diagnosis among women living with HIV in Canada

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy incidence rates among women living with HIV (WLWH) have increased over time due to longer life expectancy, improved health status, and improved access to and HIV prevention benefits of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). However, it is unclear whether intended or unintended pregnancies are contributing to observed increases.

METHODS

We analyzed retrospective data from the Canadian HIV Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Cohort Study (CHIWOS). Kaplan-Meier methods and GEE Poisson models were used to measure cumulative incidence and incidence rate of pregnancy after HIV diagnosis overall, and by pregnancy intention. We used multivariable logistic regression models to examine independent correlates of unintended pregnancy among the most recent/current pregnancy.

RESULTS

Of 1,165 WLWH included in this analysis, 278 (23.9%) women reported 492 pregnancies after HIV diagnosis, 60.8% of which were unintended. Unintended pregnancy incidence (24.6 per 1,000 Women-Years (WYs); 95% CI: 21.0, 28.7) was higher than intended pregnancy incidence (16.6 per 1,000 WYs; 95% CI: 13.8, 20.1) (Rate Ratio: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2-1.8). Pregnancy incidence among WLWH who initiated cART before or during pregnancy (29.1 per 1000 WYs with 95% CI: 25.1, 33.8) was higher than among WLWH not on cART during pregnancy (11.9 per 1000 WYs; 95% CI: 9.5, 14.9) (Rate Ratio: 2.4, 95% CI: 2.0-3.0). Women with current or recent unintended pregnancy (vs. intended pregnancy) had higher adjusted odds of being single (AOR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.10, 3.42), younger at time of conception (AOR: 0.95 per year increase, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.99), and being born in Canada (AOR: 2.76, 95% CI: 1.55, 4.92).

CONCLUSION

Nearly one-quarter of women reported pregnancy after HIV diagnosis, with 61% of all pregnancies reported as unintended. Integrated HIV and reproductive health care programming is required to better support WLWH to optimize pregnancy planning and outcomes and to prevent unintended pregnancy.

Relationships matter: contraceptive choices among HIV-positive women in Tanzania

Efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Tanzania are guided by a four-prong strategy advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO). Prong 2, prevention of unintended pregnancies among women living with HIV, has, however, received the least attention and contraceptive use to prevent unintended pregnancies remains low. This study explored the perceived barriers to the use of modern methods of contraception, and factors influencing contraceptive choice among HIV-positive women in urban Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. A qualitative multi-site study was conducted, utilising in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 37 sexually active HIV-positive women aged between 20 and 44 years, attending three health facilities within Dar-es-Salaam. The theoretical framework was a patient centred model. Four barriers were identified: the influence of the women's spousal relationships; personal beliefs and the relationship of these in understanding her disease; the influence of the social demands on the woman and her relationships; and the importance of a woman's relationship with her healthcare provider/healthcare system. Being the bearers of bad news (HIV-positive status) the pregnant women experienced conflicts, violence, abandonment and rejection. The loss in negotiating power for the women was in relation to their intimate partners, but also in the patient-healthcare provider relationship. The role of the male partner as a barrier to contraceptive use cannot be understated. Therefore, the results suggest that healthcare providers should ensure patient-focused education and provide support that encompasses the importance of their relationships. Additional research is required to elucidate the functional association between contraceptive choices and personal and social relationships.

Emtonjeni-A Structural Intervention to Integrate Sexual and Reproductive Health into Public Sector HIV Care in Cape Town, South Africa: Results of a Phase II Study

Integration of sexual and reproductive health within HIV care services is a promising strategy for increasing access to family planning and STI services and reducing unwanted pregnancies, perinatal HIV transmission and maternal and infant mortality among people living with HIV and their partners. We conducted a Phase II randomized futility trial of a multi-level intervention to increase adherence to safer sex guidelines among those wishing to avoid pregnancy and adherence to safer conception guidelines among those seeking conception in newly-diagnosed HIV-positive persons in four public-sector HIV clinics in Cape Town. Clinics were pair-matched and the two clinics within each pair were randomized to either a three-session provider-delivered enhanced intervention (EI) (onsite contraceptive services and brief milieu intervention for staff) or standard-of-care (SOC) provider-delivered intervention. The futility analysis showed that we cannot rule out the possibility that the EI intervention has a 10 % point or greater success rate in improving adherence to safer sex/safer conception guidelines than does SOC (p = 0.573), indicating that the intervention holds merit, and a larger-scale confirmatory study showing whether the EI is superior to SOC has merit.

HIV status, fertility intentions, and contraception in the era of expanded access to antiretroviral therapy: A case study of rural Mozambique

Provision of effective contraception to HIV-positive women of reproductive age is critical to effective management of HIV infection and prevention of both vertical and horizontal HIV transmission in developing countries. This exploratory retrospective study examines contraceptive use during the prolonged post-partum period in a sample of 285 HIV-positive and HIV-negative women who gave birth at four rural maternity clinics in a high HIV-prevalence region in Mozambique. Multivariate analyses show no significant variations by HIV status in contraceptive timing (mean time to first contraceptive use of 7.1 months) or prevalence (31% at time of survey) but detect a moderating effect of fertility intentions: while HIV status makes no difference for women wishing to stop childbearing, among women who want to continue having children, or are unsure about their reproductive plans, HIV-positive status is associated with higher likelihood of contraceptive use. Regardless of HIV status, virtually no condom use is reported. These results are situated within the context of a rapidly widening access to post-partum antiretroviral therapy in the study site and similar sub-Saharan settings.

Pregnancy desire and dual method contraceptive use among people living with HIV attending clinical care in Kenya, Namibia and Tanzania

AIM

To describe factors associated with pregnancy desire and dual method use among people living with HIV in clinical care in sub-Saharan Africa.

DESIGN

Sexually active HIV-positive adults were enrolled in 18 HIV clinics in Kenya, Namibia and Tanzania. Demographic, clinical and reproductive health data were captured by interview and medical record abstraction. Correlates of desiring a pregnancy within the next 6 months, and dual method use [defined as consistent condom use together with a highly effective method of contraception (hormonal, intrauterine device (IUD), permanent)], among those not desiring pregnancy, were identified using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among 3375 participants (median age 37 years, 42% male, 64% on antiretroviral treatment), 565 (17%) desired a pregnancy within the next 6 months. Of those with no short-term fertility desire (n=2542), 686 (27%) reported dual method use, 250 (10%) highly effective contraceptive use only, 1332 (52%) condom use only, and 274 (11%) no protection. Respondents were more likely to desire a pregnancy if they were from Namibia and Tanzania, male, had a primary education, were married/cohabitating, and had fewer children. Factors associated with increased likelihood of dual method use included being female, being comfortable asking a partner to use a condom, and communication with a health care provider about family planning. Participants who perceived that their partner wanted a pregnancy were less likely to report dual method use.

CONCLUSIONS

There was low dual method use and low use of highly effective contraception. Contraceptive protection was predominantly through condom-only use. These findings demonstrate the importance of integrating reproductive health services into routine HIV care.

Factors Associated with Hormonal and Intrauterine Contraceptive Use among HIV-Infected Men and Women in Lilongwe, Malawi: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background. Understanding the factors associated with the use of hormonal and intrauterine contraception among HIV-infected men and women may lead to interventions that can help reduce high unintended pregnancy rates. Materials and Methods. This study is a subanalysis of a cross-sectional survey of 289 women and 241 men who were sexually active and HIV-infected and were attending HIV care visits in Lilongwe, Malawi. We estimated adjusted prevalence ratios (PRs) to evaluate factors associated with hormonal and intrauterine contraceptive use for men and women in separate models. Results and Discussion. 39.8% of women and 33.2% of men (p = 0.117) reported that they were using hormonal or intrauterine contraception at last intercourse. Having greater than 3 children was the only factor associated with hormonal and intrauterine contraceptive use among men. Among women, younger age, not wanting a pregnancy in 2 years, being with their partner for more than 4 years, and being able to make family planning decisions by themselves were associated with hormonal and intrauterine contraceptive use. Conclusions. The men and women in our study population differed in the factors associated with hormonal and intrauterine contraceptive use. Understanding these differences may help decrease unmet FP needs among HIV-infected men and women.

Contraceptive use among HIV-infected women and men receiving antiretroviral therapy in Lusaka, Zambia: a cross-sectional survey

Background

Family planning (FP) is an essential health service and an important part of comprehensive HIV care. However, there is limited information about the contraceptive needs of people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, which in turn has hampered efforts to expand and integrate FP services into existing HIV programs.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional survey to determine FP prevalence and predictors among HIV-positive women and men attending 18 public antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinics in Lusaka, Zambia. Trained peer counselors administered the 10-question survey to those seeking care for five days at each of the target sites.

Results

From February to April 2014, we surveyed 7,046 HIV-infected patients receiving routine HIV services. Use of modern contraception was reported by 69 % of female ART patients and 79 % of male ART patients. However, highly effective contraceptive use and dual method use were low among women (38 and 25 %, respectively) and men (19 and 14 %, respectively). HIV disclosure status (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 4.91, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 3.32–7.24 for women, AOR = 3.58, 95 % CI = 2.39–5.38 for men) and sexual activity in the last 6 months (AOR = 5.80, 95 % CI = 4.51–7.47 for women, AOR = 6.24, 95 % CI = 3.51–11.08 for men) were associated with modern contraceptive use in multivariable regression. Most respondents said they would access FP services if made available within ART clinic.

Conclusions

While FP-ART integration may be a promising strategy for increasing FP service uptake, such services must focus on assessing sexual activity and advocating for dual method use to increase effective contraceptive use and prevent unintended pregnancies.

Acceptability of intrauterine contraception among women living with human immunodeficiency virus: a randomised clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

The aim of our study was to compare acceptability of the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD) and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) among women living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

METHODS

We randomly assigned 703 HIV-positive women in Uganda to receive either a Cu-IUD or an LNG-IUS and followed them for at least one year. During the follow-up visits, face-to-face interviews were conducted with the women and acceptability of the Cu-IUD or LNG-IUS was assessed, using a Likert scale, at one, three, six and twelve months. At the final follow-up visit, women were also assessed for satisfaction with either method.

RESULTS

Between 9 September 2013 and 31 December 2014, 703 women were recruited and assigned as follows: 349 to a Cu-IUD group and 354 to an LNG-IUS group. Acceptability decreased from 94.3% at one month to 87.7% at 12 months in the Cu-IUD group and from 96.3% at one month to 86.7% at 12 months in the LNG-IUS group (p = 0.97). Satisfaction with intrauterine contraception was reported by 83.7% (283/338) in the Cu-IUD group and by 90.4% (302/334) in the LNG-IUS group (p = 0.50).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in acceptability between the LNG-IUS and Cu-IUD among HIV-positive women. Satisfaction rates were high and similar in the two groups. Both the Cu-IUD and LNG-IUS are acceptable forms of contraception for HIV-positive women and should be made available to women in HIV care to increase their contraceptive method options.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial is registered at the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR 201308000561212).

Intrauterine Contraception Among Women Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare discontinuation rates of the levonorgestrel and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) among women with human immunodeficiency virus.

METHODS

A double-masked randomized trial was conducted at Mulago Hospital, Uganda. Women received either a copper or levonorgestrel IUD. The primary outcome was discontinuation of intrauterine contraception within 1 year of placement. The secondary outcomes were incidence of side effects and severe adverse events. To discern a difference of 10% from a copper IUD discontinuation rate of 18%, power of 80%, and 95% confidence interval (CI), a sample size of 351 per arm was estimated. Analysis of the primary outcome was by intension-to-treat principle.

RESULTS

From September 2013 to December 2014, 979 were screened and 703 randomized as follows: 349 to the copper group and 354 to the levonorgestrel group. In total, 8.6% (29/338) women in the copper group compared with 8.1% (27/334) in the levonorgestrel group discontinued intrauterine conception within 1 year of placement (incidence rate ratio 1.1 [95% CI 0.64-1.96]). Overall, the incidence of heavy bleeding was higher in the copper group (37% [125/338]) than in the levonorgestrel group (19.5% [65/334]). However, the incidence of amenorrhea, which occurred in 3.3% (11/338) of women, was lower in the copper group than the 19.8% (66/334) of women who reported amenorrhea in the levonorgestrel group.

CONCLUSION

There was no difference in discontinuation rates between the copper and levonorgestrel devices. Women in the levonorgestrel group had reduced incidence of heavy bleeding and a higher incidence of amenorrhea compared with those in the copper group.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Pan African Clinical Trial Registry, www.pactr.org, PACTR 201308000561212.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

Periconception HIV Risk Behavior Among Men and Women Reporting HIV-Serodiscordant Partners in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

HIV-infected men and women who choose to conceive risk infecting their partners. To inform safer conception programs we surveyed HIV risk behavior prior to recent pregnancy amongst South African, HIV-infected women (N = 209) and men (N = 82) recruited from antenatal and antiretroviral clinics, respectively, and reporting an uninfected or unknown-HIV-serostatus pregnancy partner. All participants knew their HIV-positive serostatus prior to the referent pregnancy. Only 11 % of women and 5 % of men had planned the pregnancy; 40 % of women and 27 % of men reported serostatus disclosure to their partner before conception. Knowledge of safer conception strategies was low. Around two-thirds reported consistent condom use, 41 % of women and 88 % of men reported antiretroviral therapy, and a third of women reported male partner circumcision prior to the referent pregnancy. Seven women (3 %) and two men (2 %) reported limiting sex without condoms to peak fertility. None reported sperm washing or manual insemination. Safer conception behaviors including HIV-serostatus disclosure, condom use, and ART at the time of conception were not associated with desired pregnancy. In light of low pregnancy planning and HIV-serostatus disclosure, interventions to improve understandings of serodiscordance and motivate mutual HIV-serostatus disclosure and pregnancy planning are necessary first steps before couples or individuals can implement specific safer conception strategies.

Family planning use and fertility desires among women living with HIV in Kenya

Background

Enabling women living with HIV to effectively plan whether and when to become pregnant is an essential right; effective prevention of unintended pregnancies is also critical to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality as well as vertical transmission of HIV. The objective of this study is to examine the use of family planning (FP) services by HIV-positive and HIV-negative women in Kenya and their ability to achieve their fertility desires.

Methods

Data are derived from a random sample of women seeking family planning services in public health facilities in Kenya who had declared their HIV status (1887 at baseline and 1224 at endline) and who participated in a longitudinal study (the INTEGRA Initiative) that measured the benefits/costs of integrating HIV and sexual/reproductive health services in public health facilities. The dependent variables were FP use in the last 12 months and fertility desires (whether a woman wants more children or not). The key independent variable was HIV status (positive and negative). Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to describe the women’s characteristics and to examine the relationship between FP use, fertility desires and HIV status.

Results

At baseline, 13 % of the women sampled were HIV-positive. A slightly higher proportion of HIV-positive women were significantly associated with the use of FP in the last 12 months and dual use of FP compared to HIV-negative women. Regardless of HIV status, short-acting contraceptives were the most commonly used FP methods. A higher proportion of HIV-positive women were more likely to be associated with unintended (both mistimed and unwanted) pregnancies and a desire not to have more children. After adjusting for confounding factors, the multivariate results showed that HIV-positive women were significantly more likely to be associated with dual use of FP (OR = 3.2; p < 0.05). Type of health facility, marital status and household wealth status were factors associated with FP use. Factors associated with fertility desires were age, education level and household wealth status.

Conclusions

The findings highlight important gaps related to utilization of FP among WLHIV. Despite having a greater likelihood of reported use of FP, HIV-positive women were more likely to have had an unintended pregnancy compared to HIV-negative women. This calls for need to strengthen family planning services for WLHIV to ensure they have better access to a wide range of FP methods. There is need to encourage the use of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy and prevention of vertical transmission of HIV. However, such policies should be based on respect for women’s right to informed reproductive choice in the context of HIV/AIDS.

Trial registration

NCT01694862

The influence of partnership on contraceptive use among HIV-infected women accessing antiretroviral therapy in rural Uganda

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to determine individual and dyadic factors associated with effective contraceptive use among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected women accessing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in rural Uganda.

STUDY DESIGN

HIV-infected women enrolled in the Uganda AIDS Rural Treatment Outcomes cohort completed questionnaires (detailing sociobehavioral characteristics, sexual and reproductive history, contraceptive use, fertility desires) and phlebotomy (October 2011-March 2013). We describe prevalence of effective contraceptive use (i.e., consistent condom use and/or oral contraceptives, injectable hormonal contraception, intrauterine device, female sterilization) in the previous 6 months among sexually active, nonpregnant women (18-40 years). We assessed covariates of contraceptive use using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 362 women (median values: age 30 years, CD4 count 397 cells/mm(3), 4.0 years since ART initiation) were included. Among 284 sexually active women, 50% did not desire a(nother) child, and 51% had a seroconcordant partner. Forty-five percent (n=127) reported effective contraceptive use, of whom 57% (n=72) used condoms, 42% (n=53) injectables, 12% (n=15) oral contraceptives and 11% (n=14) other effective methods. Dual contraception was reported by 6% (n=8). Only "partnership fertility desire" was independently associated with contraceptive use; women who reported that neither partner desired a child had significantly increased odds of contraceptive use (adjusted odds ratio: 2.40, 95% confidence interval: 1.07-5.35) compared with women in partnerships where at least one partner desired a child.

CONCLUSIONS

Less than half of sexually active HIV-infected women accessing ART used effective contraception, of which 44% (n=56) relied exclusively on male condoms, highlighting a continued need to expand access to a wider range of longer-acting female-controlled contraceptive methods. Association with partnership fertility desire underscores the need to include men in reproductive health programming.

IMPLICATIONS STATEMENT

Less than half of sexually active HIV-infected women accessing ART in rural Uganda reported using effective contraception, of whom 44% relied exclusively on the male condom. These findings highlight the need to expand access to a wider range of longer-acting, female-controlled contraceptive methods for women seeking to limit or space pregnancies. Use of contraception was more likely when both the male and female partner expressed concordant desires to limit future fertility, emphasizing the importance of engaging men in reproductive health programming.

Mothers who sell sex: a potential paradigm for integrated HIV, sexual, and reproductive health interventions among women at high risk of HIV in Burkina Faso

BACKGROUND

Antenatal care is a point of entry into the health system for women across Africa and may facilitate the uptake of HIV services among female sex workers (FSWs). This study aimed to evaluate the determinants of motherhood among FSWs, their sexual risks, and their engagement in health care.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to July 2013 among FSWs in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. The study used respondent-driven sampling for HIV testing and behavioral data collection. Predictors of motherhood and the association of motherhood and sex work dynamics were assessed separately using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of the 696 women enrolled, the majority of participants (76.6%, n = 533) had at least 1 biological child. Mothers were more likely to have a nonpaying partner [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 1.73; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.20 to 2.49], and significantly less likely to currently desire to conceive (aOR, 0.21; 95% CI: 0.13 to 0.33). Motherhood was predictive of having reduced condomless vaginal or anal sex with a new client [age-adjusted odds ratio (aaOR), 0.80; 95% CI: 0.65 to 0.97] in the past 30 days, and increased condomless vaginal or anal sex with a nonpaying partner (aaOR, 1.49; 95% CI: 1.13 to 1.96). Motherhood was prognostic of a higher likelihood of ever being tested for HIV (aaOR, 1.89; 95% CI: 1.55 to 2.31). Motherhood was predictive of reporting limited difficulty when accessing health services (aaOR, 0.15; 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.34).

CONCLUSIONS

Motherhood is common among FSWs. The results indicate that FSWs who are mothers may have more exposure to health care because of seeking antenatal/perinatal services, presenting important opportunities for inclusion in the HIV continuum of care and to prevent vertical transmission.

In search of a face: childbearing decisions among couples living with HIV from rural southern Malawi

In the context of increasing access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), the issue of childbearing among people living with HIV is important. The little that is known originates from either studies conducted before widespread availability of highly active ART or has focused on women's or men's reproductive behaviours and experiences. This paper therefore explores factors that influence childbearing decisions of married couples living with HIV in patrilineal and matrilineal kinship communities in rural Malawi. Qualitative exploratory research was conducted in two rural districts in the southern part of Malawi. Data were collected using in-depth interviews from 20 couples purposively sampled in matrilineal (Chiradzulu) and patrilineal (Chikhwawa) communities from July to December 2010 and was analysed using the content analysis method. The research findings show that couples living with HIV continue having children despite knowledge of the risk associated with childbearing and resistance from others in the community. Furthermore, the findings suggest that men are driven to have children by the need to cement relationships (patrilineal and matrilineal communities) and to secure position (matrilineal communities) while women do not want to have children because they are afraid of the risks and a heavier childcare burden. Finally, the findings suggest that outcomes of the decisions are dominated by husbands' desires in both communities. This paper therefore extends the discourse on the value of childbearing beyond the question of adulthood expressed in varying ways according to gender and kinship organisation. We therefore recommend that intervention strategies for both reproductive health and HIV and AIDS must focus on husbands and be sensitive to local culture. The antiretroviral clinics must integrate family planning services in their routine activities and condom use must be complemented with other effective family planning methods to prevent future pregnancies.

Fertility desire among HIV-positive women in Tigray region, Ethiopia: implications for the provision of reproductive health and prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission services

Background

There is growing recognition of the difficult reproductive decisions faced by HIV-positive women. Studies in both resource-constrained and developed countries have suggested that many HIV-positive women continue to desire children in spite of their understanding of the possible risks that HIV poses. This study investigates the factors associated with fertility desire among HIV-positive women in Tigray region, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 964 HIV-positive women receiving HIV care in 12 health centers of Tigray region. In each health center, the number of study participants was allocated proportionally to the load of HIV-positive women in the chronic care clinics. A descriptive summary of the data and a logistic regression model were used to identify factors associated with fertility desire using odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval and P-value of 0.05.

Results

Four hundred and thirty nine (45.5%) of the participants reported a desire to have children in the future. Eighty six percent of the women had given birth to at least one live baby at the time of study, with the median number of live births being 2 (Inter quartile range = 1,3). Women in the age group of 15–24 years [AOR = 2.64(95% CI: 1.44, 4.83)] and 25–34 years [AOR = 2.37 (95% CI: 1.60, 2.4 3.50)] had higher fertility desire as compared to women in the age group of 35–49 years. Having no children [AOR = 25.76 (95% CI: 13.66, 48.56)], having one to two children [AOR = 5.14 (95% CI: 3.37, 7.84)] and disclosing HIV status to husband/sexual partner [AOR = 1.74 (95% CI: 1.11, 2.72)] were all independently associated with fertility desire.

Conclusions

Age, HIV disclosure status to husband/sexual partner, and relatively few live children were all found to influence HIV-positive women’s fertility desire. Programmers and policy makers should consider the effects of these factors for HIV-positive women as they develop HIV/AIDS interventions.

Effect of HIV status on fertility desire and knowledge of long-acting reversible contraception of postpartum Malawian women

The objectives of this study were to describe the most recent pregnancy intentions and family planning preferences of HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected postpartum Malawian women, and to assess whether HIV status is associated with fertility desire and knowledge of intrauterine contraception (IUC) and the subdermal contraceptive implant. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of the baseline characteristics of Malawian women enrolled in a prospective cohort study assessing postpartum contraceptive uptake and continuation. Women at a government hospital completed a baseline survey assessing reproductive history, family planning preferences, and knowledge of IUC and the implant. We used Pearson's chi-square tests to compare these parameters between HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women. Modified Poisson regression was performed to assess the association between HIV status and fertility desire and knowledge about IUC and the implant. Of 634 postpartum women surveyed, HIV-infected women were more likely to report their most recent pregnancy was unintended (49% vs. 37%, p = 0.004). Nearly all women (97%) did not want a child in the next 2 years, but HIV-infected women were more likely to desire no more children (adjusted prevalence ratio [PR]: 1.59; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33, 1.89). HIV-infected women were also less likely to know that IUC (adjusted PR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.84) and the implant (adjusted PR: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.75, 0.92) are safe during breast-feeding. Postpartum women strongly desire family spacing and many HIV-infected postpartum women desire no more children, suggesting an important role for these long-acting methods. Education about the efficacy and safety of IUC and the implant particularly during breast-feeding may facilitate postpartum use.

Effect of HIV status on fertility intention and contraceptive use among women in nine sub-Saharan African countries: evidence from Demographic and Health Surveys

BACKGROUND

Expanding access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) means that HIV is no longer a death sentence. This change has implications for reproductive decisions and behaviors of HIV-infected individuals.

DESIGN

Using multiple rounds of biomarker data from Demographic and Health Surveys (2004-2012) in nine sub-Saharan African countries, we compare patterns of associations between HIV status and fertility intention and between current use of modern contraception and HIV status in the context of expanding ART coverage.

RESULTS

Generally, results show that knowledge of HIV status and proportion of women ever tested for HIV increased substantially between the two surveys for almost all countries. Whereas modern contraceptive use slightly increased, fertility intentions remained relatively stable, except for Rwanda, where they decreased. RESULTS from the two surveys for the nine countries do however indicate that there is no clear consistent pattern of fertility intention and modern contraceptive use behavior by HIV status, with variations observed across countries. However, multivariate analyses show that for Rwanda and Zimbabwe women who were HIV positive, with knowledge of their status, had lower odds of wanting more children. Similarly only in Rwanda (both surveys) were HIV-positive women who knew their status more likely to be current users of contraception compared with women who were HIV negative. The reverse was observed for Zimbabwe.

CONCLUSIONS

Generally, the results point to the fact that the assumption that reproductive intention and behavior of HIV-positive women will differ compared with that of HIV-negative women may only hold true to the extent that women know their HIV status. Continuous expansion of voluntary counseling and testing services and integration of HIV treatment and care services with reproductive health services are thus warranted.

Contraceptive use and unmet need for family planning among HIV positive women on antiretroviral therapy in Kumasi, Ghana

BACKGROUND

A key strategy for minimizing HIV infection rates especially via reduction of Mother- to-Child transmission is by reducing the unmet need for family planning. In Ghana, the integration of family planning services into Antiretroviral Therapy services for persons living with HIV/AIDS has largely been ignored. We set out to measure the prevalence of modern methods of contraception, the unmet need for family planning and to identify factors associated with the use of modern methods of contraception among HIV positive women on anti retroviral therapy.

METHODS

This was a descriptive cross sectional study of HIV positive women in their reproductive ages accessing care at an adult Antiretroviral Therapy Clinic in Kumasi, Ghana. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using Epi Info version 7.1.2.0.

RESULTS

A total of 230 women were included in the study. Fifty six percent were in the 30-39 year age group. The mean age (SD) was 36.3 (5.4) years. While 53.5% of respondents desired to have children, partner desire for children was reported by 54.6% of respondents with partners. About 74% had received information on contraception from their provider. 42.6% of participants and/or their partners were using a contraception method at the time of study; the male condom (79.6%) being the most commonly used method. The estimated unmet need for contraception was 27.8%. Contraceptive use was strongly associated with partner knowledge of HIV status (AOR = 3.64; 95% CI 1.36-9.72; p = 0.01) and use of a contraceptive method prior to diagnosis of HIV (AOR = 6.1; 2.65-14.23; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Contraceptive Prevalence is high among HIV positive women in Kumasi compared with the general Ghanaian population. Despite this, there still is a high unmet need for family planning in this population. We recommend continuous education on contraceptives use to HIV patients accessing HAART services to further increase contraceptive uptake.

Effects of HIV antiretroviral therapy on sexual and injecting risk-taking behavior: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Increased global access and use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been postulated to undermine HIV prevention efforts by changing individual risk-taking behavior. This review aims to determine whether ART use is associated with changes in sexual or injecting risk-taking behavior or diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted of HIV-seropositive participants receiving ART compared with no ART use in experimental or observational studies. Primary outcomes included (1) any unprotected sexual intercourse, (2) STI diagnoses, and (3) any unsafe injecting behavior.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight studies met the selection criteria. Fifty-six studies containing 32 857 participants reported unprotected sex; 11 studies containing 16 138 participants reported STI diagnoses; and 4 studies containing 1600 participants reported unsafe injecting behavior. All included studies were observational. Unprotected sex was lower in participants receiving ART than in those not receiving ART (odds ratio [OR], 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], .64-.83; P < .001; heterogeneity I(2) = 79%) in both high-income (n = 38) and low-/middle-income country (n = 18) settings, without any evidence of publication bias. STI diagnoses were also lower among individuals on ART (OR, 0.58; 95% CI, .33-1.01; P = .053; I(2) = 92%); however, there was no difference in injecting risk-taking behavior with antiretroviral use (OR, 0.90; 95% CI, .60-1.35; P = .6; I(2) = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite concerns that use of ART might increase sexual or injecting risk-taking, available research suggests that unprotected sex is reduced among HIV-infected individuals on treatment. The reasons for this are not yet clear, although self-selection and mutually reinforcing effects of HIV treatment and prevention messages among people on ART are likely.

Contraceptive use and method preference among HIV positive women in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross sectional survey

Background

Prevention of unplanned pregnancies among people living with HIV is essential component of “Global Plan” even in the context of expanded access to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The study aimed to assess whether contraceptive use and method preference varied by the use of HAART among HIV positive women in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross sectional facility based survey was conducted from June to October, 2012 information was gathered using interviewer administered questionnaire and document review was conducted to confirm HIV status and clinical review. A sample of 1418 HIV positive women including 770 women receiving HAART and 648 HAART-naïve recruited randomly from different health institutions in Addis Ababa. Data were principally analyzed using logistic regression.

Result

Overall, 71% women reported using contraception (75% among HAART users and 65% HAART naïve women). Male condom and injectables are the most preferred contraceptive methods among both groups. The odds of contraceptive use among HAART users was higher (AOR 1.60, 95% CI; 1.30-2.12) than HAART naïve women. In addition to this, presence of partner (AOR 2.32, 95% CI 1.60-3.40), disclosure of HIV status to husband (AOR 2.23; 95% CI 1.21-4.12), presence of living children: one (AOR 1.7; 95% CI 1.03-2.40), two (AOR 2.6; 95% CI 1.7-4.02) and three (AOR 3.3; 95% CI 1.90-5.60) respectively were found to be predictors of contraceptive use among HIV positive women.

Conclusion

The contraceptive profile of women in the study area mainly dependent on male condom use, this indicates the need to better integrate tailored counseling and contraceptive options with care and support activities that targets HIV positive women. Moreover, emphasis should be given to dual contraceptive method use along with their regular follow up irrespective of their HAART use.

Fertility intentions among HIV positive women aged 18-49 years in Addis Ababa Ethiopia: a cross sectional study

Background

Given the degree of HIV epidemic among women and the current antiretroviral therapy (ART) scale up in Ethiopia; considering the issue of fertility is vital to ensure the delivery of integrated reproductive health along with prevention services provided to positive women. This study was aimed to assess fertility intentions of women living with HIV attending public health institutions (hospitals & health centers) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

Institution based cross sectional survey was conducted, among 1855 HIV positive, women aged 18–49 years selected from different public health facilities in Addis Ababa; from June to October 2012. Information was gathered by using interviewer administered questionnaires. Data were double entered in EPI Info version 3.5.2 software, cleaned finally exported to IBM SPSS statistics version 20 for analysis. Logistic regression models were used to predict the association of study variables and adjusted for possible confounders.

Result

Overall, 44% of women reported fertility intention. ART users had higher fertility intention (AOR; 1.26, 95%CI; 1.01 to 1.60) than ART naïve. In addition to this, having partner being on sexual relationship, young age, being single and having fewer or no children were found to be predictors of fertility intentions. The presence of ART, improvement of health condition and the influence of husband were the main reasons for childbearing intentions of women in the study area.

Conclusion

A considerable proportion of women reported fertility intention. There was an association between fertility intentions and ART use. It is important for health care providers and policy makers to strengthen the fertility need of HIV positive women along with HIV care so that women may decide freely and responsibly on their fertility issues.

Contraceptive utilization and associated factors among HIV positive women on chronic follow up care in Tigray Region, Northern Ethiopia: a cross sectional study

BACKGROUND

In sub-Sahara Africa, more than 60% of all new HIV infections are occurring in women, infants and young children. Maternal to child transmission is responsible for 90% of childhood HIV infection. Preventing unwanted pregnancy among HIV positive women is imperative to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 964 HIV positive women in selected 12 health centers of Tigray region. In this paper, analysis was restricted only for 847 women who were sexually active and non-pregnant. In each health center the number of study participants was allocated proportionally to the load of HIV positive women in chronic care clinics. The data were entered into EpiData version 3.1, and cleaned and analyzed using Stata version 11.1. Descriptive summary of data and logistic regression were used to identify possible predictors using odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and P-value of 0.05.

FINDINGS

Three hundred ninety four (46.5%) of all HIV positive women had intension to have more children. Three hundred seventy five (44.3%) were using contraceptive methods at time of survey. Injectable (70.7%) and male condom (47.6%) were most commonly used type of contraceptives. In the multivariable analysis, women who were urban dwellers (AOR = 2.55; 95% CI: 1.27, 5.02), completed primary education (AOR = 2.27; 95% CI: 1.12, 2.86) and those openly discussed about contraceptive methods with their husbands or sexual partners (AOR = 6.3; 95% CI: 3.42, 11.76) were more likely to use contraceptive. Women who have one or more living children were also more likely to use contraceptive compared with women with no child.

CONCLUSION

Less than half of women used contraceptive methods. The use of condoms could impact unintended pregnancies and reduced risks of vertical and sexual transmission. Efforts to increase contraceptive utilization focusing on the barrier methods should be strengthen in HIV/AIDS chronic care units.

Reliance on condoms for contraceptive protection among HIV care and treatment clients: a mixed methods study on contraceptive choice and motivation within a generalised epidemic

Objectives

To (i) describe the contraceptive practices of HIV care and treatment (HCTx) clients in Manzini, Swaziland, including their unmet needs for family planning (FP), and compare these with population-level estimates; and (ii) qualitatively explore the causal factors influencing contraceptive choice and use.

Methods

Mixed quantitative and qualitative methods were used. A cross-sectional survey conducted among HCTx clients (N=611) investigated FP and condom use patterns. Using descriptive statistics, findings were compared with population-level estimates derived from Swaziland Demographic and Health Survey data, weighted for clustering. In-depth interviews were conducted with HCTx providers (n=16) and clients (n=22) and analysed thematically.

Results

64% of HCTx clients reported current contraceptive use; most relied on condoms alone, few practiced dual method use. Rates of condom use for FP among female HCTx clients (77%, 95% CI 71% to 82%) were higher than population-level estimates in the study region (50% HIV-positive, 95% CI 43% to 57%; 37% HIV-negative, 95% CI 31% to 43%); rates of unmet FP needs were similar when condom use consistency was accounted for (32% HCTx, 95% CI 26% to 37%; vs 35% HIV-positive, 95% CI 28% to 43%; 29% HIV-negative, 95% CI 24% to 35%). Qualitative analysis identified motivational factors influencing FP choice: fears of reinfection; a programmatic focus on condoms for people living with HIV; changing sexual behaviours before and after antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation; failure to disclose to partners; and contraceptive side effect fears.

Conclusions

Fears of reinfection prevailed over consideration of pregnancy risk. Given current evidence on reinfection, HCTx services must move beyond a narrow focus on condom promotion, particularly for those in seroconcordant relationships, and consider diverse strategies to meet reproductive needs.