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Simegn W, Hussen E, Maru Y, Seid AM, Limenh LW, Ayenew W, Melese M, Atsbeha BW. Knowledge, attitude, practices and associated factors of family planning among women living with hiv at the university of Gondar specialized hospital: a cross sectional study. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:232. [PMID: 38610010 PMCID: PMC11010278 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-03036-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV/AIDS poses a significant health challenge in sub-Saharan African countries, with a disproportionate impact on women of reproductive age. The disparities in knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to family planning among women living with HIV can be intricate and multi-faceted. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, practice, and associated factors regarding family planning among the women living with HIV at the University of Gondar specialized hospital, Gondar, Ethiopia. METHOD A cross-sectional study was carried out at the University of Gondar Teaching Referral Hospital, focusing on HIV-positive women of reproductive age who visited the ART unit from July 8-28, 2022. Data collection involved the use of pre-tested, structured questionnaires administered through interviews. The gathered data were entered into the electronic Kobo Collect platform and subsequently exported for analysis using SPSS version 26. Descriptive summaries, including frequencies, means, and percentages, were presented through tables and figures. Logistic regression was employed to identify potential predictors, presenting adjusted odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval and a significance level set at a P-value of 0.05. RESULTS A total of 328 study participants were included. About 93% of the study population had good knowledge about modern contraceptives, and about 94% of the study population had good knowledge about safer conception. Only 30.2% of the study population had knowledge of the dual contraceptive method. The attitude and practice of women towards family planning (FP) were 71.0% and 55.8%, respectively. The study revealed that the most commonly employed contraceptive method was injectable contraceptives, constituting 34.2% of usage. Having one and a greater number of children (AOR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.10, 4.49), having discussions on fertility plans with healthcare providers (AOR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.02, 4.761), and having good family planning practices (AOR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.19, 3.87) were significantly associated with the attitude toward family planning. Married women (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.11, 3.1), able to read and write (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI:1.04,4.32), college and above educational level (AOR = 4.51, 95% CI:1.93,10.87), had discussion on fertility plan with healthcare providers (AOR = 5.09, 95% CI: 1.96, 13.24), knowledge about dual method (AOR = 1.95, CI: 1.08, 3.50), and knowledge about modern contraceptive methods (AOR = 7.24, 95% CI: 1.56, 33.58) were significantly associated with good practice of family planning. CONCLUSION Women living with HIV exhibited notably high levels of knowledge regarding modern contraceptive methods and safer conception. The knowledge of the dual method was low. More than half of the study population had good practice in family planning. More than two-thirds of HIV-positive reproductive-age women had a good attitude about family planning. Having one or a greater number of children, having a discussion on a fertility plan with a healthcare provider, and having a good practice of family planning were significantly associated with a good attitude toward family planning. Married women, education status, discussions on fertility plans with healthcare providers, knowledge about dual methods, and knowledge about modern contraceptive methods were significantly associated with good family planning practices. The stakeholders should design interventions based on the aforementioned factors to improve the attitude and practice of family planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wudneh Simegn
- Department of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Eman Hussen
- Department of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yossef Maru
- Department of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Abdulwase Mohammed Seid
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy,College of Medicine and Health Sciences, , University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Liknaw Workie Limenh
- Department of pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, , University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Wondim Ayenew
- Department of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mihret Melese
- Department of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanemeskel Weldegerima Atsbeha
- Department of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Macleod CI, Reynolds JH, Delate R. Violence Against Women Who Sell Sex in Eastern and Southern Africa: A Scoping Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:691-703. [PMID: 36964683 PMCID: PMC10666481 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231160847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Women who sell sex (WSS) are vulnerable to violence. We present a scoping review of the last decade of research on the prevalence and incidence of, factors associated with, and services regarding violence against WSS in Eastern and Southern African (ESA). A systematic search of various databases resulted in 20 papers being reviewed. Inclusion criteria, applied by the first two authors, were as follows: empirical papers, key research problem is violence against WSS, and conducted in ESA countries. The lifetime prevalence of violence revealed in the studies ranged from 21% to 82%. A pattern of generalized violence against WSS from paying clients, male partners, strangers, family members, friends/acquaintances, and the authorities emerged. Factors associated with violence included the context within which the sex work occurs, alcohol use, type of sex exchange interactions, and personal factors (low education, low income, marriage, youth, high client volume, time in sex work, forced sexual debut, and internalized sex work stigma). WSS seldom access services after violence. Evaluations of two programs, a woman-focused HIV intervention, and the Diagonal Interventions to Fast-Forward Reproductive Health project, showed improvements in gender-based violence services. Findings suggest that targeted programmes should be paired with improving general health services and focus on promoting collective agency among WSS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Richard Delate
- United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Pretoria, South Africa
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Kim EJ, Park B, Kim SK, Park MJ, Lee JY, Jo AR, Kim MJ, Shin HN. A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Comprehensive Sexuality Education Programs on Children and Adolescents. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2511. [PMID: 37761708 PMCID: PMC10530760 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11182511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Childhood and adolescence are crucial periods for developing one's awareness of sexuality. Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) during these stages is essential for overall growth, fostering healthy self-concepts, and addressing diverse sexual issues among children and adolescents globally. A meta-analysis was conducted to analyze the effectiveness of CSE programs. A literature search was performed on EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and PsycInfo for studies published before 14 June 2023, and based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We used the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA, V4) software version 4.0 for the analysis and interpreted the effect sizes according to Cohen's definition. Between 2011 and 2020, 21 studies on CSE were published, with the United States having the most publications (17). Of the 34 studies reviewed, 20 were randomized controlled trials. The primary population for CSE was middle/high school students (15), with the most frequent age range being 10-19 years (26). The overall effect size of CSE was significant (effect size = 1.31, p < 0.001), with cognition (effect size = 5.76, p < 0.001) being the most significant. CSE is an effective educational tool for children and adolescents with a significant impact on variables such as cognition and abstinence. It should be incremental from childhood and adolescence to adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bitna Park
- Department of Nursing, Gangneung-Wonju National University, 150 Heungeop-myeon Namwon-ro, Wonju-si 26403, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea; (E.J.K.); (S.K.K.); (M.J.P.); (J.Y.L.); (A.R.J.); (M.J.K.); (H.N.S.)
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Elmi N, Marquez NG, Rucinski K, Lyons C, Turpin G, Ba I, Turpin N, Gouane E, Obodou E, Diouf D, Baral S. Meeting the reproductive health needs of female sex workers in Côte d'Ivoire: protecting the human right to dignified health. Reprod Health 2023; 20:133. [PMID: 37670305 PMCID: PMC10481554 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-023-01659-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The sexual and reproductive health needs of female sex workers (FSW) are often understudied and underserved in the context of HIV-related research in countries across Sub-Saharan Africa and West Africa. We assessed the lived experiences of FSW across Côte d'Ivoire to characterize unmet reproductive health needs and opportunities to address them. From February-August, 2020, ENDA Santé, Côte d'Ivoire conducted 75 in-depth interviews and 15 focus group discussions with FSW and community informants in five cities in Côte d'Ivoire. Themes that emerged included the inconsistent use of contraception services, a history of unintended pregnancies, and experiences of stigma at public healthcare facilities. Opportunities to increase the impact of both SRH and HIV services included strengthening existing HIV and family planning service integration for FSW. Taken together, the results highlight the importance of addressing the unmet reproductive health needs of FSW to both optimize the HIV response and increase the delivery of human-rights affirming sexual and reproductive health services for sex workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nika Elmi
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Nuria Gallego Marquez
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Katherine Rucinski
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Carrie Lyons
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Gnilane Turpin
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
| | | | | | - Emile Gouane
- ENDA Santé Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | | | | | - Stefan Baral
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD USA
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Khezri M, Tavakoli F, Schwartz S, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H, McKnight CA, Jarlais DD, Baral S, Shokoohi M. Global epidemiology of abortion among female sex workers: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. Ann Epidemiol 2023; 85:13-37. [PMID: 37356778 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2023.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the evidence of a high rate of unintended pregnancy, there remains limited information about the prevalence and experiences of abortion among female sex workers (FSWs). In response, we aimed to summarize the available evidence on abortion among FSWs. METHODS We searched Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to January 29, 2023 . We pooled data from the included studies using random-effects meta-analyses. We also grouped countries for the legality of elective abortion stratified by the United Nations database on abortion laws and policies. RESULTS We identified 60 eligible studies from 2031 potentially eligible records. The pooled lifetime prevalence of at least one and multiple induced abortions was 37.7% (95% confidence interval, 31.8-43.7) and 21.7% (14.9-29.2), respectively. Among FSWs recruited in countries where elective abortion is illegal, at least one induced abortion prevalence was 35.1% (28.1-42.4), and multiple induced abortion prevalence was 23.1% (12.4-35.9). In countries where elective abortion is legal, at least one induced abortion prevalence was 44.6% (34.8-54.6), and multiple induced abortion prevalence was 19.9% (11.9-29.3). Among FSWs experiencing abortion, self-managed abortion prevalence was estimated at 32.8% (23.6-42.7) overall, 42.8% (37.2-48.5) for countries where elective abortion is illegal, and 15.6% (3.9-32.7) for countries that legally allow elective abortion. CONCLUSIONS Induced abortion is prevalent among FSWs, highlighting the need for interventions to increase access to effective contraception and safe abortion care. While induced abortion prevalence did not significantly differ across the legal grounds for abortion, self-managed abortion prevalence was higher in countries where elective abortion was illegal, highlighting the urgent need for accessible abortion services for FSWs in criminalized settings. Moving forward necessitates implementing and evaluating culturally acceptable models of safe abortion and post-abortion care for FSWs to increase access to the full spectrum of sexual and reproductive health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York; HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Sheree Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, Saint Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Courtney A McKnight
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York; Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York; Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada.
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Nyariki E, Wanjiru R, Shah P, Kungu M, Babu H, Weiss HA, Seeley J, Kimani J, Beattie TS. Managing motherhood - the experiences of female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2023; 25:1230-1243. [PMID: 36519798 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2022.2153926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Women selling sex often face challenges in raising their children in the context of significant socio-economic difficulties and the social stigma inherent in sex work. This paper is based on a cross-sectional qualitative study that explored the dual roles of motherhood and sex work among female sex workers enrolled for ongoing HIV prevention and treatment services in the Sex Workers Outreach Programme (SWOP) clinics in Nairobi, Kenya. We examined women's experiences and coping in negotiating and managing the dual roles of motherhood and sex work. In-depth interviews were conducted with 39 women randomly selected from 1,000 women included in a baseline behavioural-biological survey conducted in October-November 2020 as part of the Maisha Fiti study. The analysis focused on themes related to motherhood and making a living: (i) entry into sex work; (ii) childcare arrangements; (iii) ensuring respectability for their children; and (iv) pursuit of safety and security. Findings from the study show women's entry into sex work was necessitated by poverty and a lack of reliable sources of livelihood to support their children. While performing their motherhood roles, the women demonstrate agency in navigating through their stigmatised conflicted sex work role to be able to provide for their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Nyariki
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rhoda Wanjiru
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Pooja Shah
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mary Kungu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hellen Babu
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen A Weiss
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Partners for Health and Development in Africa (PHDA), UNITID, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tara S Beattie
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Baynes C, Steyn P, Soi C, Dinis A, Tembe S, Mehrtash H, Narasimhan M, Kiarie J, Sherr K. Use of implementation science to advance family planning programs in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:1038297. [PMID: 36561275 PMCID: PMC9763469 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.1038297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective As environmental and economic pressures converge with demands to achieve sustainability development goals, low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) increasingly require strategies to strengthen and scale-up evidence-based practices (EBP) related to family planning (FP). Implementation science (IS) can help these efforts. The purpose of this article is to elucidate patterns in the use of IS in FP research and identify ways to maximize the potential of IS to advance FP in LMIC. Design and methods We conducted a systematic review that describes how IS concepts and principles have been operationalized in LMIC FP research published from 2007-2021. We searched six databases for implementation studies of LMIC FP interventions. Our review synthesizes the characteristics of implementation strategies and research efforts used to enhance the performance of FP-related EBP in these settings, identifying gaps, strengths and lessons learned. Results Four-hundred and seventy-two studies were eligible for full-text review. Ninety-two percent of studies were carried out in one region only, whereas 8 percent were multi-country studies that took place across multiple regions. 37 percent of studies were conducted in East Africa, 21 percent in West and Central Africa, 19 percent in Southern Africa and South Asia, respectively, and fewer than 5 percent in other Asian countries, Latin America and Middle East and North Africa, respectively. Fifty-four percent were on strategies that promoted individuals' uptake of FP. Far fewer were on strategies to enhance the coverage, implementation, spread or sustainability of FP programs. Most studies used quantitative methods only and evaluated user-level outcomes over implementation outcomes. Thirty percent measured processes and outcomes of strategies, 15 percent measured changes in implementation outcomes, and 31 percent report on the effect of contextual factors. Eighteen percent reported that they were situated within decision-making processes to address locally identified implementation issues. Fourteen percent of studies described measures to involve stakeholders in the research process. Only 7 percent of studies reported that implementation was led by LMIC delivery systems or implementation partners. Conclusions IS has potential to further advance LMIC FP programs, although its impact will be limited unless its concepts and principles are incorporated more systematically. To support this, stakeholders must focus on strategies that address a wider range of implementation outcomes; adapt research designs and blend methods to evaluate outcomes and processes; and establish collaborative research efforts across implementation, policy, and research domains. Doing so will expand opportunities for learning and applying new knowledge in pragmatic research paradigms where research is embedded in usual implementation conditions and addresses critical issues such as scale up and sustainability of evidence-informed FP interventions.Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42020199353.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin Baynes
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States,Correspondence: Colin Baynes
| | - Petrus Steyn
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Soi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Aneth Dinis
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States,The National Directorate of Public Health, Ministry of Health of Mozambique, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Stelio Tembe
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Hedieh Mehrtash
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Manjulaa Narasimhan
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - James Kiarie
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kenneth Sherr
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States,Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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Macleod CI, Reynolds JH, Delate R. Women Who Sell Sex in Eastern and Southern Africa: A Scoping Review of Non-Barrier Contraception, Pregnancy and Abortion. Public Health Rev 2022; 43:1604376. [PMID: 35646420 PMCID: PMC9131513 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2022.1604376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: There is a need to hone reproductive health (RH) services for women who sell sex (WSS). The aim of this review was to collate findings on non-barrier contraception, pregnancies, and abortion amongst WSS in Eastern and Southern African (ESA). Methods: A scoping review methodology was employed. Inclusion criteria were: 1) empirical papers from 2) ESA, 3) published since 2010, and 4) addressing WSS in relation to 5) the identified RH issues. Results: Reports of rates of non-barrier contraceptive usage varied from 15% to 76%, of unintended pregnancy from 24% to 91%, and of abortion from 11% to 48%. Cross-cutting factors were alcohol use, violence, health systems problems, and socio-economic issues. Pregnancy desire was associated with having a non-paying partner. Barriers to accessing, and delaying, antenatal care were reported as common. Targeted programmes were reported as promoting RH amongst WSS. Conclusion: Programmes should be contextually relevant, based on local patterns, individual, interpersonal and systemic barriers. Targeted approaches should be implemented in conjunction with improvement of public health services. Linked HIV and RH services, and community empowerment approaches are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona Ida Macleod
- Critical Studies in Sexualities and Reproduction, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | | | - Richard Delate
- 2gether 4 SRHR, United Nations Population Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Little KM, Flomen L, Hanif H, Anderson SM, Thurman AR, Clark MR, Doncel GF. HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Implant Stated Preferences and Priorities: Results of a Discrete Choice Experiment Among Women and Adolescent Girls in Gauteng Province, South Africa. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3099-3109. [PMID: 35360893 PMCID: PMC9371991 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03658-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
For adolescent girls (AG) and young women (YW), adherence barriers may limit the effectiveness of daily oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Due to its low-burden and long-lasting product attributes, PrEP implants could remove some of the critical adherence barriers of oral PrEP products for individuals at risk of HIV. To explore stated preferences for a long-acting PrEP implant, we conducted a quantitative survey and discrete choice experiment with AG (ages 15-17), YW (18-34), and female sex workers (FSW; ≥ 18) in Gauteng Province, South Africa. We completed 600 quantitative surveys across the three subgroups of women. Respondents stated preference for an implant that provided longer HIV protection (24 months versus 6 months) and required a single insertion. They stated that they preferred a biodegradable implant that could be removed within 1 month of insertion. Respondents had no preference for a particular insertion location. Overall, 78% of respondents said they would be likely (33%) or very likely (45%) to use a PrEP implant were one available, with the majority (82%) stating preference for a product that would provide dual protection against HIV and unintended pregnancies. To reduce their risk of HIV, AG, YW, and FSW in our survey reported a strong willingness to use long-acting, highly-effective, dissolvable PrEP implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M Little
- HIV/TB Department, Population Services International (PSI), Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lola Flomen
- Strategy & Insights Department, PSI, 1120 19th Street NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC, 20036, USA.
| | - Homaira Hanif
- CONRAD, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
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Kamau M, Musau A, Were D, Waruguru G, Kabue M, Mutegi J, Plotkin M, Reed J. Unmet Need for Contraception Among Female Sex Workers Initiating Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention During Kenya's National Scale-Up: Results From a Programmatic Surveillance Study. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 2:747784. [PMID: 35265940 PMCID: PMC8899534 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2021.747784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Female sex workers (FSWs) experience a higher risk for both HIV acquisition and unwanted pregnancies compared to women in the general population. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention offers protection against HIV infection but has no contraceptive effect. We examined the determinants of unmet need for contraception among FSWs who initiated PrEP to inform programs and policies to optimize contraceptive services and avert unwanted pregnancy among this high-risk group. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on routine, de-identified client data from a large-scale PrEP service delivery project, from February 2017 to December 2019. Data were collected from FSWs during clinic visits using Ministry of Health approved tools. Records for all 17,456 FSWs initiated on PrEP from 79 health facilities in 10 counties across three geographic clusters with high and medium HIV incidence were examined for eligibility for the analysis. Unmet need for non-barrier contraception was defined as not being pregnant, not currently using the non-barrier contraceptive method, and not trying to conceive or intending to have a child in the near future. Univariate and multivariable regression analyses were conducted with selected variables to examine associations. Results In the 79 sites, eligible records from 17,063 FSWs who initiated PrEP were included. Two-thirds were under 30 years, and the majority were not married and had received PrEP at drop-in centers. Overall, the unmet need for non-barrier contraception was 52.6%, higher for those under 20 years of age (60.9%) and those served in public and private health facilities (67.4 and 83.2%, respectively) rather than drop-in centers (50.6%). Women from the Nairobi and Coast cluster regions reported a higher unmet need for contraception compared to those from the Lake region. All these associations were significant (p < 0.05) at the multivariate level. Conclusions The high unmet need for non-barrier contraception among FSWs initiating PrEP highlights the need for integrated delivery of contraception services within PrEP programs. Identifying groups with a high unmet need could lead to higher success in an integrated program. Two recommended approaches include training healthcare providers to deliver clear contraception messaging during PrEP initiation and making a range of contraceptives accessible within PrEP services for high-risk groups. Furthermore, accelerated research on multipurpose prevention technologies is necessary to reduce the burden on individuals using multiple prevention products concurrently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercy Kamau
- Jhpiego, Nairobi, Kenya
- *Correspondence: Mercy Kamau
| | | | | | - Gladys Waruguru
- International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya, Mombasa, Kenya
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11
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Grant-Maidment T, Kranzer K, Ferrand RA. The Effect of Integration of Family Planning Into HIV Services on Contraceptive Use Among Women Accessing HIV Services in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:837358. [PMID: 35284908 PMCID: PMC8907733 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.837358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There is substantial unmet need for family planning (FP) among women living with HIV (WLHIV), leading to unintended pregnancies and may contribute indirectly to increasing the risk of transmission of HIV. This review aims to determine whether integration of FP into HIV testing and care results in increased use of contraception, a reduction in unmet need for FP, improved use of safer conception methods and a reduction in unintended pregnancies in low and middle-income countries. A systematic review was undertaken incorporating studies from PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science and Global Health, the International AIDS Society Abstract Archive, the World STI & HIV Congress Abstract Archive and the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections Abstract Archive published between 2016 and 2021, updating previous systematic reviews. After screening, 13 studies were included, 11 conducted in sub-Saharan Africa and 2 in India. The primary outcome of the review was contraceptive uptake and secondary outcomes included unmet need for FP, safer conception and unintended pregnancy. Integrated FP-HIV facilities were found to increase dual contraceptive use by at least 8% in five studies and modern contraceptive use by at least 8% in four studies. Findings from two studies suggested integration decreased the unmet need for contraception. Limited data prevented a conclusion from being drawn regarding whether integration increases safer conception. There was no evidence of integration reducing unintended pregnancies. The median quality score of studies was 3/9. Overall, integrated facilities have the potential of improving reproductive health of women accessing HIV services in LMICs. FP may be enhanced by including a safer conception component for WLHIV. Systematic Review Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021251008, identifier: CRD42021251008.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katharina Kranzer
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.,Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rashida A Ferrand
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.,Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
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12
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Sibanda E, Shapiro A, Mathers B, Verster A, Baggaley R, Gaffield ME, Macdonald V. Values and preferences of contraceptive methods: a mixed-methods study among sex workers from diverse settings. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2021; 29:1913787. [PMID: 33949283 PMCID: PMC8118510 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2021.1913787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There is limited information on contraceptive values and preferences of sex workers. We conducted a mixed-method study to explore contraceptive values and preferences among sex workers. We conducted an online survey with individuals from 38 countries (n = 239), 6 focus group discussions (FGD, n = 68) in Zimbabwe, and 12 in-depth phone interviews (IDI) across 4 world regions, in June and July of 2019. Participants were asked about awareness of contraceptives, methods they had used in the past, and the determinants of their choices. Differences between respondents from high-, low- and middle- income countries were examined. Qualitative data were analysed thematically. Survey participants reported an awareness of modern contraceptive methods. FGDs found that younger women had lower awareness. Reports of condomless sex were common and modern contraceptive use was inconsistent. Determinants of contraceptive choices differed by setting according to results of the survey, FGD, and IDI. Regardless of country income level, determinants of contraceptive choices included ease of use, ease of access to a contraceptive method, and fewer side effects. Healthcare provider attitudes, availability of methods, and clinic schedules were important considerations. Most sex workers are aware of contraceptives, but barriers include male partners/clients, side effects, and health system factors such as access and clinic attitudes towards sex workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Euphemia Sibanda
- Project Director, The Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research, Harare, Zimbabwe (CeSHHAR Zimbabwe); Senior Lecturer, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ania Shapiro
- Consultant, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Annette Verster
- Technical Officer, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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13
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Zemlak JL, White RH, Nestadt DF, Alexander KA, Park JN, Sherman SG. Interpersonal Violence and Contraceptive Method Use by Women Sex Workers. Womens Health Issues 2021; 31:516-522. [PMID: 34493434 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE More than one-half of women sex workers (sex workers) in the United States experience interpersonal violence, defined as physical or sexual violence, by sexual partners, including clients or intimate partners. Women experiencing interpersonal violence by intimate partners often choose hidden, woman-controlled contraception (e.g., intrauterine devices, pills, or sterilization) because fear of violence can impede condom negotiation. Yet, little is known about how interpersonal violence relates to contraception among sex workers who may have different sexual partner perpetrators (clients and intimate partners). The purpose of this study was to examine associations between interpersonal violence perpetrated by clients or intimate partners and contraceptive use. STUDY DESIGN Data are from an observational, prospective cohort of sex workers, aged 18 to 49 in Baltimore, Maryland (N = 218). Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were used to assess associations between lifetime interpersonal violence and past 3-month contraceptive use. The outcome was any woman-controlled contraceptive use versus partner-controlled or no contraception. RESULTS Nearly all sex workers (96.5%) reported contraceptive use, with most using male condoms (69%), nearly one-half using woman-controlled methods (43%), and 25% using dual methods (e.g., condoms and a woman-controlled method). Lifetime experiences of interpersonal violence by clients (58%) and intimate partners (52%) were prevalent. Sex workers who experienced interpersonal violence by intimate partners had over twice the odds of woman-controlled contraceptive use (adjusted odds ratio, 2.48; 95% confidence interval, 1.36-4.54). CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the importance of relationship context in the associations between interpersonal violence and use of woman-controlled contraceptive methods among sex workers, because only violence experiences by intimate partners were associated with increased odds of woman-controlled contraceptive method use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca Hamilton White
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Danielle Friedman Nestadt
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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14
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Werle JE, Teston EF, Marcon SS, Cunha GHD, Mandu JBDS, Ferreira Junior MA. HIV/AIDS em região de tríplice fronteira: subsídios para reflexões sobre políticas públicas. ESCOLA ANNA NERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/2177-9465-ean-2020-0320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Objetivo analisar a tendência dos casos de HIV/Aids por sexo e faixa etária nas cidades gêmeas de Mato Grosso do Sul. Método estudo ecológico de série histórica. Foram utilizadas as fichas de notificação de HIV/Aids, do período de 2009 a 2018, disponibilizadas pela Secretaria de Estado de Saúde e analisadas segundo estatística descritiva, regressão polinomial e geoespacialização dos casos. Resultados foram registradas 734 notificações, sendo 57,9% em homens, e com maior incidência no biênio 2017-2018 em ambos os sexos. A tendência de crescimento das notificações apresenta-se com aceleração positiva nas cidades gêmeas (r2=0,91; p<0,001). Os maiores coeficientes de determinação foram observados em mulheres, na faixa etária de 35 a 49 anos (r2=0,98; p<0,001), e em homens de 15 a 19 anos (r2=0,96; p<0,002). Conclusão os resultados desafiam profissionais e gestores no combate à pandemia de HIV/Aids, carecendo de reflexões contínuas diante as estratégias/políticas públicas adotadas até o momento, em especial na região de fronteira. Implicações para a prática: o profissional enfermeiro, ao conhecer o perfil da sua população e a distribuição dos casos, consegue traçar estratégias capazes de atingir o público de forma eficaz e efetiva.
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15
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Faini D, Munseri P, Bakari M, Sandström E, Faxelid E, Hanson C. "I did not plan to have a baby. This is the outcome of our work": a qualitative study exploring unintended pregnancy among female sex workers. BMC Womens Health 2020; 20:267. [PMID: 33261591 PMCID: PMC7709442 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-020-01137-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High number of unintended pregnancies-often leading to induced abortions-are reported among female sex workers (FSWs), highlighting a major unmet need for contraception. To better understand barriers to contraceptive use, we explored FSW's pregnancy perceptions and experiences of unintended pregnancy. We hypothesized that sex work exacerbates barriers to contraceptive use and that FSW's pregnancy perceptions and experiences of unintended pregnancy influence future commitment to contraceptive use. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with 11 FSWs (January-June 2019) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. We purposively sampled FSWs with a positive pregnancy test from those participating in a HIV vaccine preparedness cohort. We used open ended questions to explore how FSWs make decisions when facing barriers to contraceptive use, dealing with unintended pregnancy and adhering to contraceptive use after experiencing unintended pregnancy. All interviews were conducted in Kiswahili, audio-recorded, transcribed and translated into English. Grounded theory approach was used to analyse transcripts. Open and selective coding was performed using Nvivo software. RESULTS FSWs reported that sex work impedes good contraceptive behaviour because sex workers felt unable to negotiate consistent condom use, avoided health services due to stigma, missed monthly contraceptive supplies because of inconvenient clinic operating hours or skipped contraceptive pills when intoxicated after taking alcohol. FSWs who perceived pregnancy to be a burden terminated the pregnancy because of fear of loss of income during pregnancy or child rearing expenses in case child support was not assured by their partners. FSWs who perceived pregnancy to be a blessing decided to keep the pregnancy because they desired motherhood and hoped that children would bring prosperity. Family planning counselling and availability of contraceptives during postpartum care influenced the initiation of contraception among FSWs. Financial hardships related to childrearing or painful abortion experiences influenced FSWs' commitment to good contraceptive practices. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that FSWs face barriers to initiating and adhering to contraceptive use because of sex work stigma, inability to negotiate condoms and failure to access medical services at their convenience. Our findings underscore the need to integrate contraceptive services with HIV programs serving FSWs in their areas of work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Faini
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), 9 United Nations Road, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Patricia Munseri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Muhammad Bakari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Eric Sandström
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Faxelid
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Claudia Hanson
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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16
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Tiwari R, Wang J, Han H, Kalu N, Sims LB, Katz DA, Burke B, Tsegaye AT, Carter KA, Freije S, Guo B, Albirair M, Barr‐DiChiara M, Baggaley R, Jamil MS, Senya K, Johnson C, Khosropour CM. Sexual behaviour change following HIV testing services: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25635. [PMID: 33161636 PMCID: PMC7649006 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Learning one's HIV status through HIV testing services (HTS) is an essential step toward accessing treatment and linking to preventive services for those at high HIV risk. HTS may impact subsequent sexual behaviour, but the degree to which this varies by population or is true in the setting of contemporary HIV prevention activities is largely unknown. As part of the 2019 World Health Organization Consolidated Guidelines on HTS, we undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the effect of HTS on sexual behaviour. METHODS We searched nine electronic databases for studies published between July 2010 and December 2019. We included studies that reported on at least one outcome (condom use [defined as the frequency of condom use or condom-protected sex], number of sex partners, HIV incidence, STI incidence/prevalence). We included studies that prospectively assessed outcomes and that fit into one of three categories: (1) those evaluating more versus less-intensive HTS, (2) those of populations receiving HTS versus not and (3) those evaluating outcomes after versus before HTS. We conducted meta-analyses using random-effects models. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Of 29 980 studies screened, 76 studies were included. Thirty-eight studies were randomized controlled trials, 36 were cohort studies, one was quasi-experimental and one was a serial cross-sectional study. There was no significant difference in condom use among individuals receiving more-intensive HTS compared to less-intensive HTS (relative risk [RR]=1.03; 95% CI: 0.99 to 1.07). Condom use was significantly higher after receiving HTS compared to before HTS for individuals newly diagnosed with HIV (RR = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.36 to 1.99) and marginally significantly higher for individuals receiving an HIV-negative diagnosis (RR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.01 to 2.62). Individuals receiving more-intensive HTS reported fewer sex partners at follow-up than those receiving less-intensive HTS, but the finding was not statistically significant (mean difference = -0.28; 95% CI: -3.66, 3.10). CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the importance of using limited resources towards HTS strategies that focus on early HIV diagnosis, treatment and prevention services rather than resources dedicated to supplementing or enhancing HTS with additional counselling or other interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Tiwari
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Jiayu Wang
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Hannah Han
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Ngozi Kalu
- Department of Infectious Disease EpidemiologyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Lee B Sims
- School of Public HealthImperial College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - David A Katz
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Barbara Burke
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Adino T Tsegaye
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Kayla A Carter
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Sophie Freije
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | - Boya Guo
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| | | | | | - Rachel Baggaley
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs programmeWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Muhammad S Jamil
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs programmeWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Kafui Senya
- Communicable Diseases ClusterWorld Health OrganizationAccraGhana
| | - Cheryl Johnson
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and STIs programmeWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
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17
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Bowring AL, Schwartz S, Lyons C, Rao A, Olawore O, Njindam IM, Nzau J, Fouda G, Fako GH, Turpin G, Levitt D, Georges S, Tamoufe U, Billong SC, Njoya O, Zoung-Kanyi AC, Baral S. Unmet Need for Family Planning and Experience of Unintended Pregnancy Among Female Sex Workers in Urban Cameroon: Results From a National Cross-Sectional Study. GLOBAL HEALTH: SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020; 8:82-99. [PMID: 32234842 PMCID: PMC7108938 DOI: 10.9745/ghsp-d-19-00330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Female sex workers (FSWs) in Cameroon have unmet need for effective contraception, and experience of unintended pregnancy and pregnancy termination is common. Reducing barriers to accessing high-quality, voluntary family planning services in FSW-focused community services is a key strategy to promote client-centered care, promote informed choice, reduce unintended pregnancies, and improve quality of life for FSWs. Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) in Cameroon commonly have unmet need for contraception posing a high risk of unintended pregnancy. Unintended pregnancy leads to a range of outcomes, and due to legal restrictions, FSWs often seek unsafe abortions. Aside from the high burden of HIV, little is known about the broader sexual and reproductive health of FSWs in Cameroon. Methods: From December 2015 to October 2016, we recruited FSWs aged ≥18 years through respondent-driven sampling across 5 Cameroonian cities. Cross-sectional data were collected through a behavioral questionnaire. Modified-robust Poisson regression was used to approximate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) for TOP and current use of effective nonbarrier contraception. Results: Among 2,255 FSWs (median age 28 years), 57.6% reported history of unintended pregnancy and 40.0% reported prior TOP. In multivariable analysis, TOP history was associated with current nonbarrier contraceptive use (aPR=1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.07, 1.42); ever using emergency contraception (aPR=1.34, 95% CI=1.17, 1.55); >60 clients in the past month (aPR=1.29, 95% CI= 1.07, 1.54) compared to ≤30; inconsistent condom use with clients (aPR=1.17, 95% CI=1.00, 1.37); ever experiencing physical violence (aPR=1.24, 95% CI=1.09, 1.42); and older age. Most (76.5%) women used male condoms for contraception, but only 33.2% reported consistent condom use with all partners. Overall, 26.4% of women reported currently using a nonbarrier contraceptive method, and 6.2% reported using a long-acting method. Previous TOP (aPR=1.41, 95%CI=1.16, 1.72) and ever using emergency contraception (aPR=2.70, 95% CI=2.23, 3.26) were associated with higher nonbarrier contraceptive use. Recent receipt of HIV information (aPR=0.72, 95% CI=0.59, 0.89) and membership in an FSW community-based organization (aPR=0.73, 95% CI=0.57, 0.92) were associated with lower use nonbarrier contraceptive use. Conclusions: Experience of unintended pregnancies and TOP is common among FSWs in Cameroon. Given the low use of nonbarrier contraceptive methods and inconsistent condom use, FSWs are at risk of repeat unintended pregnancies. Improved integration of client-centered, voluntary family planning within community-led HIV services may better support the sexual and reproductive health and human rights of FSWs consistent with the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Bowring
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sheree Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carrie Lyons
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amrita Rao
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Oluwasolape Olawore
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Iliassou Mfochive Njindam
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Metabiota, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | - Gnilane Turpin
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Ubald Tamoufe
- Metabiota, Yaounde, Cameroon.,Johns Hopkins Cameroon Program, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Serge C Billong
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Oudou Njoya
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Anne-Cécile Zoung-Kanyi
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaounde, Cameroon.,Division of Operations Research, Ministry of Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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