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Mullis CE, Goldberg AJ, Avila K, Hall B, Golub SA, Keller MJ. Understanding Attitudes of Postpartum Cisgender Women Toward Integration of HIV Prevention Services into Routine Prenatal and Postpartum Sexual Health Discussions. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2024; 38:185-193. [PMID: 38656218 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0307] [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] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective, user-controlled method for HIV prevention. However, awareness, uptake, and adherence to PrEP remain low among cisgender women (CGW). The prenatal and postpartum periods present an opportunity for delivery of comprehensive sexual health services that include HIV prevention education and services. However, little is known about postpartum CGW's attitudes toward integration of HIV prevention education and services into obstetric care in the US. We conducted semistructured interviews with 20 postpartum CGW in the Bronx, NY from July to November 2022 to explore their experiences with prenatal and postpartum sexual health care, examine their attitudes toward integration of HIV prevention services into obstetric sexual health care, and identify components of future implementation strategies. Transcripts were analyzed thematically using a framework approach. Among CGW interviewed, fewer than half reported prior knowledge of PrEP. Ten participants preferred long-acting injectable PrEP relative to six who preferred daily oral PrEP. Most participants reported no discussion of sex with their provider during pregnancy, and when discussions occurred, they focused on permission or prohibition of sexual activity. Participants described a reliance on providers to lead prenatal sexual health discussions. Even when not perceived as personally relevant, most respondents valued education on HIV prevention and PrEP services. In the postpartum period, sexual health discussions were similarly limited despite participants describing complex experiential sexual health concerns. This study supports the potential for integration of HIV prevention education and services into routine prenatal and postpartum sexual health discussions in an area of high HIV prevalence in the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline E Mullis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Alison J Goldberg
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Karina Avila
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Bianca Hall
- Division of General Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sarit A Golub
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
- PhD Program in Basic and Applied Social Psychology, Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marla J Keller
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
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Masenyetse LJ, Greenberg L, Samonyane F, Sekepe B, Mokone M, Mokone MJ, Tukei VJ, Beres LK. Oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis use among pregnant and postpartum women: results from real-world implementation in Lesotho. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1221752. [PMID: 37583546 PMCID: PMC10425268 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1221752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lesotho has reached epidemic control, PrEP is an important component in maintaining that and in reaching the goal of eliminating mother-to-child transmission. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of existing, routine PrEP health records in 26 health facilities in Lesotho. PrEP visit data were collected for pregnant and postpartum women screened for PrEP and/or enrolled in PrEP programs from 1 January 2019 through 30 June 2021 with follow-up data collected up to the date of data abstraction per site between October 2021 and May 2022. Poisson regression with robust variance was used to evaluate the association between patient characteristics and continuation of PrEP. Results Indications for starting PrEP were significantly associated with continuation in PrEP use. Women starting PrEP due to having a partner known to be living with HIV were the most likely to return for follow-up. In all age groups, the most common reason for starting PrEP was being in a serodiscordant relationship, though the proportion varies by age. Conclusion As Lesotho is now in the process of optimizing PrEP use among pregnant and postpartum women, it is critical to revise data sources to capture information that will link PrEP records and ANC/PNC records and document pregnancy/postpartum status in order to better understand PrEP use and gaps in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren Greenberg
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States
| | | | - Bokang Sekepe
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Maseru, Lesotho
| | | | | | - Vincent J. Tukei
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Maseru, Lesotho
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Laura K. Beres
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Matthews LT, Atukunda EC, Owembabazi M, Kalyebera KP, Psaros C, Chitneni P, Hendrix CW, Marzinke MA, Anderson PL, Isehunwa OO, Hurwitz KE, Bennett K, Muyindike W, Bangsberg DR, Haberer JE, Marrazzo JM, Bwana MB. High PrEP uptake and objective longitudinal adherence among HIV-exposed women with personal or partner plans for pregnancy in rural Uganda: A cohort study. PLoS Med 2023; 20:e1004088. [PMID: 36795763 PMCID: PMC9983833 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Uganda, fertility rates and adult HIV prevalence are high, and many women conceive with partners living with HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) reduces HIV acquisition for women and, therefore, infants. We developed the Healthy Families-PrEP intervention to support PrEP use as part of HIV prevention during periconception and pregnancy periods. We conducted a longitudinal cohort study to evaluate oral PrEP use among women participating in the intervention. METHODS AND FINDINGS We enrolled HIV-negative women with plans for pregnancy with a partner living, or thought to be living, with HIV (2017 to 2020) to evaluate PrEP use among women participating in the Healthy Families-PrEP intervention. Quarterly study visits through 9 months included HIV and pregnancy testing and HIV prevention counseling. PrEP was provided in electronic pillboxes, providing the primary adherence measure ("high" adherence when pillbox was opened ≥80% of days). Enrollment questionnaires assessed factors associated with PrEP use. Plasma tenofovir (TFV) and intraerythrocytic TFV-diphosphate (TFV-DP) concentrations were determined quarterly for women who acquired HIV and a randomly selected subset of those who did not; concentrations TFV ≥40 ng/mL and TFV-DP ≥600 fmol/punch were categorized as "high." Women who became pregnant were initially exited from the cohort by design; from March 2019, women with incident pregnancy remained in the study with quarterly follow-up until pregnancy outcome. Primary outcomes included (1) PrEP uptake (proportion who initiated PrEP); and (2) PrEP adherence (proportion of days with pillbox openings during the first 3 months following PrEP initiation). We used univariable and multivariable-adjusted linear regression to evaluate baseline predictors selected based on our conceptual framework of mean adherence over 3 months. We also assessed mean monthly adherence over 9 months of follow-up and during pregnancy. We enrolled 131 women with mean age 28.7 years (95% CI: 27.8 to 29.5). Ninety-seven (74%) reported a partner with HIV and 79 (60%) reported condomless sex. Most women (N = 118; 90%) initiated PrEP. Mean electronic adherence during the 3 months following initiation was 87% (95% CI: 83%, 90%). No covariates were associated with 3-month pill-taking behavior. Concentrations of plasma TFV and TFV-DP were high among 66% and 47%, 56% and 41%, and 45% and 45% at months 3, 6, and 9, respectively. We observed 53 pregnancies among 131 women (1-year cumulative incidence 53% [95% CI: 43%, 62%]) and 1 HIV-seroconversion in a non-pregnant woman. Mean pillcap adherence for PrEP users with pregnancy follow-up (N = 17) was 98% (95% CI: 97%, 99%). Study design limitations include lack of a control group. CONCLUSIONS Women in Uganda with PrEP indications and planning for pregnancy chose to use PrEP. By electronic pillcap, most were able to sustain high adherence to daily oral PrEP prior to and during pregnancy. Differences in adherence measures highlight challenges with adherence assessment; serial measures of TFV-DP in whole blood suggest 41% to 47% of women took sufficient periconception PrEP to prevent HIV. These data suggest that women planning for and with pregnancy should be prioritized for PrEP implementation, particularly in settings with high fertility rates and generalized HIV epidemics. Future iterations of this work should compare the outcomes to current standard of care. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03832530 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03832530?term=lynn+matthews&cond=hiv&cntry=UG&draw=2&rank=1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn T. Matthews
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Kato Paul Kalyebera
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Christina Psaros
- Behavioral Medicine Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Pooja Chitneni
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases and General Internal Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Craig W. Hendrix
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Mark A. Marzinke
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Peter L. Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Oluwaseyi O. Isehunwa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Kathleen E. Hurwitz
- NoviSci, Inc., a Target RWE company, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kara Bennett
- Bennett Statistical Consulting Inc., Ballston Lake, New York, United States of America
| | - Winnie Muyindike
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - David R. Bangsberg
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health Sciences University–Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Jessica E. Haberer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Jeanne M. Marrazzo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
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Mwongeli N, Wagner AD, Dettinger JC, Pintye J, Brown Trinidad S, Awuor M, Kimemia G, Ngure K, Heffron RA, Baeten JM, Mugo N, Bukusi EA, Kinuthia J, Kelley MC, John-Stewart GC, Beima-Sofie KM. " PrEP Gives the Woman the Control": Healthcare Worker Perspectives on Using pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) During Pregnancy and Postpartum in Kenya. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2022; 21:23259582221111068. [PMID: 35776525 PMCID: PMC9251967 DOI: 10.1177/23259582221111068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pregnant and postpartum women in high HIV prevalent regions are at increased HIV risk. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can decrease HIV incidence reducing infant HIV infections. Understanding healthcare worker (HCW) beliefs about PrEP prior to national roll-out is critical to supporting PrEP scale-up. Methods: We conducted 45 semi-structured interviews among a range of HCW cadres with and without PrEP provision experience purposively recruited from four clinics in Kenya to compare their views on prescribing PrEP during pregnancy and postpartum. Interviews were analysed using a conventional content analysis approach to identify key influences on PrEP acceptability and feasibility. Results: All HCWs perceived PrEP as an acceptable and feasible HIV prevention strategy for pregnant and postpartum women. They believed PrEP meets women’s needs as an on-demand, female-controlled prevention strategy that empowers women to take control of their HIV risk. HCWs highlighted their role in PrEP delivery success while acknowledging how their knowledge gaps, concerns and perceived PrEP implementation challenges may hinder optimal PrEP delivery. Conclusion: HCWs supported PrEP provision to pregnant and postpartum women. However, counseling tools to address risk perceptions in this population and strategies to reduce HCW knowledge gaps, concerns and perceived implementation barriers are required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anjuli D Wagner
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Julia C Dettinger
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jillian Pintye
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,School of Nursing, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Susan Brown Trinidad
- Department of Bioethics and Humanities, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Merceline Awuor
- 7284University of Washington Kenya (UW-Kenya), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Grace Kimemia
- Population Dynamic and Reproductive Health, 107883African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Community Health, 118985Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Juja, Kenya
| | - Renee A Heffron
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Medicine, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,2158Gilead Sciences, Foster City, USA
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Partners in Health Research and Development, Thika, Kenya.,185955Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,185955Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - John Kinuthia
- 285569Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maureen C Kelley
- The Ethox Centre and 575097Wellcome Centre for Ethics & Humanities, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Grace C John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Medicine, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, 7284University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Sekhon M, van der Straten A. Pregnant and breastfeeding women's prospective acceptability of two biomedical HIV prevention approaches in Sub Saharan Africa: A multisite qualitative analysis using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259779. [PMID: 34784355 PMCID: PMC8594804 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV infection during pregnancy and breastfeeding has implications for maternal health. Between May- November 2018, we explored prospective acceptability of two novel HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) products, oral pills and vaginal rings, through focus group discussions with 65 pregnant and breastfeeding women in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe. Qualitative analysis was completed, guided by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA). First, a deductive thematic analysis was applied to relevant coded data, into the seven TFA constructs (Affective Attitude; Burden; Ethicality, Intervention Coherence; Opportunity Costs; Perceived Effectiveness; Self-efficacy). Next, an iterative analysis was completed to generate themes within each of the TFA constructs. Women’s positive attitudes towards daily oral PrEP highlighted the familiarity of taking pills, understanding the purpose of taking pills, and the perception that it is an effective method to protect mothers and babies from HIV during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women emphasized the ease of using the ring given its monthly duration that lowers burden on the user, its discreetness and invisibility once in place. The TFA analysis highlighted how acceptability of both methods could be enhanced by focusing on perceptions of the end users (i.e. the women) and not just the products themselves. This approach provided insights into how to refine the intervention materials and plans for implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandeep Sekhon
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Ariane van der Straten
- Center for AIDS prevention studies, University of California San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Women’s Global Health imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, CA, United States of America
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Ruppe LB, Spencer LA, Kriebs JM. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV Infection and the Role of the Women's Health Care Provider in HIV Prevention. J Midwifery Womens Health 2021; 66:322-333. [PMID: 34086396 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
HIV infection is a major public health problem for women in the United States. Prevention of new HIV infections is essential to the goal of eliminating HIV in the United States. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective and safe HIV prevention method recommended for women at increased risk for HIV infection, including during pregnancy and lactation. The recommended PrEP regimen is a fixed-dose combination of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine administered as a single daily dose. The initial evaluation for individuals desiring PrEP for HIV prevention includes obtaining a history, laboratory evaluation, and evaluation of the accessibility and acceptability of PrEP. Individuals using PrEP medications are seen every 3 months for follow-up. These follow-up visits include evaluation for signs and symptoms of seroconversion, management of side effects and adverse reactions, and evaluation of adherence to PrEP. Follow-up visits also include testing for HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and renal function and a review of HIV prevention and risk reduction methods. Despite known safety and efficacy of PrEP among women, PrEP use in women in the United States remains low. Gaps exist in HIV prevention that can in part be addressed by women's health care providers through risk screening and provision of HIV prevention methods. All providers of comprehensive sexual health care can and should assess individuals for risk factors for HIV infection and offer HIV prevention methods, including PrEP, to individuals at risk for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah B Ruppe
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Lisa A Spencer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jan M Kriebs
- Midwifery Institute at Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Abstract
Advances in perinatal HIV management have averted a significant number of infections in neonates and have made the possibility of elimination of mother-to-child transmission a reality; however, significant gaps in implementation of early testing programs as well as the expansion of therapeutic strategies to neonates are hindering prevention efforts and access to safer, more effective and easier to administer treatment. This article provides insights on the current state of perinatal HIV, recent advances, and future needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres F Camacho-Gonzalez
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Suite 500, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Paul Palumbo
- Section of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
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van der Straten A, Ryan JH, Reddy K, Etima J, Taulo F, Mutero P, Taylor J, Piper J, Musara P. Influences on willingness to use vaginal or oral HIV PrEP during pregnancy and breastfeeding in Africa: the multisite MAMMA study. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 23:e25536. [PMID: 32524700 PMCID: PMC7287313 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Women in sub‐Saharan Africa spend a substantial portion of their reproductive lives pregnant and/or breastfeeding (P/BF), yet they have limited options to prevent HIV during these maternal stages. In preparation for phase 3b prevention trials in P/BF women, we explored attitudes about using a vaginal ring or oral pills for pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), perceptions of HIV risk during P/BF and key influences on future PrEP use. Methods In 2018, we conducted 16 single‐sex focus group discussions (FGDs) with community‐ and clinic‐recruited HIV‐uninfected women, currently or recently P/BF, aged 18 to 40, and men with (currently or recently) P/BF partners, aged 18+. Participants completed a behavioural questionnaire, viewed an educational video and handled prototype placebo products. FGDs were conducted in local languages and transcribed, coded and analysed, using a socio‐ecological framework, for key influences on willingness to use products, HIV risk perceptions and opinions on product attributes. Results Of the 128 participants (65 women, 63 men) 75% lived with their partner and 84% had a child. Women reported the most important influencers when P/BF were partners, and all stated that health decisions when P/BF are typically made jointly (e.g. medication use; ante/postnatal and baby care). There was consensus that P/BF women are at high risk for HIV, primarily because of their partner’s infidelities, and new prevention options were welcomed. Participants valued multiple options and stated that woman’s personal preference would be key to product choice. Anticipated concerns about products included risk of miscarriage, impact on infant development, complications during delivery and adequate production or taste of breastmilk. Specific perceived disadvantages emerged for the ring (e.g. vaginal discomfort, difficulty inserting/removing) and for pills (e.g. nausea/vomiting) that may be exacerbated during pregnancy. Health care providers’ (HCPs) knowledge and approval of product use during P/BF was needed to mitigate anticipated fears. Conclusions Participants perceived pregnancy and breastfeeding as high HIV risk periods and valued new prevention options. HIV protection of the mother‐child dyad, safety of the baby, and ultimately, health of the family were paramount. Endorsement by HCPs and support from partners were key to future product acceptance. Participants recommended involving partners and HCPs in sensitization efforts for future trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane van der Straten
- Women's Global Health Imperative (WGHI), RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Julia H Ryan
- Women's Global Health Imperative (WGHI), RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Krishnaveni Reddy
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University - Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Frank Taulo
- Johns Hopkins Project-College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Prisca Mutero
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | - Petina Musara
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research Centre, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Tukei VJ, Machekano R, Gill MM, Tiam A, Mokone M, Isavwa A, Nyabela M, Mots’oane T, Nchephe S, Letsie M, Kassaye SG, Guay L. 24-Month HIV-free survival among HIV-exposed Infants in Lesotho: the PEAWIL cohort study. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25648. [PMID: 33314744 PMCID: PMC7733603 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Following the implementation of the provision of lifelong antiretroviral therapy to all HIV-positive pregnant or breastfeeding women for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV by the Kingdom of Lesotho in 2013, we assessed the effectiveness of this approach by evaluating 24-month HIV-free survival among HIV-exposed infants (HEIs). METHODS We conducted a prospective observational cohort study that enrolled HIV-positive and HIV-negative pregnant women, with follow-up of women and their infants for 24 months after delivery. Participant recruitment started in June 2014 and follow-up ended in September 2018. Trained nurses collected study information through patient interviews and chart abstraction at enrolment and every three to six months thereafter. Maternal HIV testing, infant mortality, HIV transmission and HIV-free survival rates were computed using Kaplan-Meier estimation. Cox regression hazard models were used to identify factors associated with infant HIV infection and death. RESULTS Between June 2014 and February 2016, we enrolled 653 HIV-positive and 941 HIV-negative pregnant women. Twenty-seven HIV-negative women acquired HIV during follow-up. Ultimately, 634 liveborn HEI (382 (52%) male, 303 (48%) female, 3 missing) and 839 who remained HIV-unexposed (HUIs) (409 (49.0%) male, 426 (51.0%) female, 4 missing) were followed; 550 HEIs and 701 HUIs completed the 24-month follow-up period. Of 607 (95.7%) HEIs who were tested for HIV at least once during follow-up, 17 were found to be HIV-positive. Two (9.5%) of 21 infants born to mothers who acquired HIV infection during follow-up were HIV-positive compared to 15 (2.4%) of 613 HEI born to women with known HIV infection. The risk of HIV transmission from HIV-positive mothers to their infants by 24 months of age was 2.9% (95% CI: 1.8 to 4.7). The estimated 24-month mortality rate among HEIs was 6.0% (95% CI: 4.4 to 8.2) compared to 3.8% (95% CI: 2.6 to 5.3) among HUIs (Log-rank p = 0.065). HIV-free survival at 24 months was 91.8% (95% CI: 89.2 to 93.7). Lower maternal age and birth weight were independently associated with increased HIV infection or death of infants. CONCLUSIONS The implementation of lifelong ART for PMTCT in the Lesotho public health system resulted in low HIV transmission, but survival of HEI remains lower than their HIV uninfected counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Appolinaire Tiam
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS FoundationWashingtonDCUSA
- Centre for International HealthUniversity of BergenNorway
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Seble G Kassaye
- Department of MedicineGeorgetown University School of MedicineWashingtonDCUSA
| | - Laura Guay
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS FoundationWashingtonDCUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public HealthWashingtonDCUSA
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Chi BH, Mbori‐Ngacha D, Essajee S, Mofenson LM, Tsiouris F, Mahy M, Luo C. Accelerating progress towards the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV: a narrative review. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25571. [PMID: 32820609 PMCID: PMC7440973 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Findings from biomedical, behavioural and implementation studies provide a rich foundation to guide programmatic efforts for the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT). METHODS We summarized the current evidence base to support policy makers, programme managers, funding agencies and other stakeholders in designing and optimizing PMTCT programmes. We searched the scientific literature for PMTCT interventions in the era of universal antiretroviral therapy for pregnant and breastfeeding women (i.e. 2013 onward). Where evidence was sparse, relevant studies from the general HIV treatment literature or from prior eras of PMTCT programme implementation were also considered. Studies were organized into six categories: HIV prevention services for women, timely access to HIV testing, timely access to ART, programme retention and adherence support, timely engagement in antenatal care and services for infants at highest risk of HIV acquisition. These were mapped to specific missed opportunities identified by the UNAIDS Spectrum model and embedded in UNICEF operational guidance to optimize PMTCT services. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION From May to November 2019, we identified numerous promising, evidence-based strategies that, properly tailored and adopted, could contribute to population reductions in vertical HIV transmission. These spanned the HIV and maternal and child health literature, emphasizing the importance of continued alignment and integration of services. We observed overlap between several intervention domains, suggesting potential for synergies and increased downstream impact. Common themes included integration of facility-based healthcare; decentralization of health services from facilities to communities; and engagement of partners, peers and lay workers for social support. Approaches to ensure early HIV diagnosis and treatment prior to pregnancy would strengthen care across the maternal lifespan and should be promoted in the context of PMTCT. CONCLUSIONS A wide range of effective strategies exist to improve PMTCT access, uptake and retention. Programmes should carefully consider, prioritize and plan those that are most appropriate for the local setting and best address existing gaps in PMTCT health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin H Chi
- University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
| | | | | | | | | | - Mary Mahy
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)GenevaSwitzerland
| | - Chewe Luo
- United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)New YorkNYUSA
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Sullivan K, Mtande T, Jaffe E, Rosenberg N, Zimba C, Hoffman I, Little M, Faden R, Lyerly AD. Views among Malawian women about joining HIV prevention clinical trials when pregnant. AIDS Res Ther 2020; 17:27. [PMID: 32460804 PMCID: PMC7251879 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-020-00271-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pressing need to expand the biomedical HIV prevention evidence base during pregnancy is now increasingly recognized. Women's views regarding participation in such trials and initiating PrEP while pregnant are critical to inform evolving policy and best practices aimed at responsibly expanding evidence-based access for this population. METHODS We conducted 35 semi-structured interviews with reproductive-aged women in Malawi in the local language, Chichewa. Participants were HIV-negative and purposively sampled to capture a range of experience with research during pregnancy. Women's perspectives on enrolling in three hypothetical HIV prevention trial vignettes while pregnant were explored, testing: (1) oral PrEP (Truvada) (2) a vaginal ring (dapivirine), and (3) a randomized trial comparing the two. The vignettes were read aloud to participants and a simple visual was provided. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated, and coded using NVivo 11. Thematic analysis informed the analytic approach. RESULTS A majority of women accepted participation in all trials. Women's views on research participation varied largely based on their assessment of whether participation or nonparticipation would best protect their own health and that of their offspring. Women interested in participating described power dynamics with their partner as fueling their HIV exposure concerns and highlighted health benefits of participation-principally, HIV protection and access to testing/treatment and ancillary care, and perceived potential risks of the vignettes as low. Women who were uninterested in participating highlighted potential maternal and fetal health risks of the trial, challenges of justifying prevention use to their partner, and raised some modality-specific concerns. Women also described ways their social networks, sense of altruism and adherence requirements would influence participation decisions. CONCLUSIONS The majority of participants conveyed strong interest in participating in biomedical HIV prevention research during pregnancy, largely motivated by a desire to protect themselves and their offspring. Our results are consistent with other studies that found high acceptance of HIV prevention products during pregnancy, and support the current direction of HIV research policies and practices that are increasingly aimed at protecting the health of pregnant women and their offspring through responsible research, rather than defaulting to their exclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Sullivan
- Center for Bioethics and Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 333 S. Columbia Street, Campus Box 7240, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Tiwonge Mtande
- UNC Project Malawi, Tidziwe Centre, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Elana Jaffe
- Center for Bioethics and Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 333 S. Columbia Street, Campus Box 7240, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Nora Rosenberg
- Department of Health Behavior, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 170 Rosenau Hall, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Chifundo Zimba
- UNC Project Malawi, Tidziwe Centre, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Irving Hoffman
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Bioinformatics Building, 130 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Maggie Little
- The Kennedy Institute of Ethics, Georgetown University, 3700 O Street Northwest, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Ruth Faden
- Berman Institute of Bioethics, Johns Hopkins University, 1809 Ashland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Anne Drapkin Lyerly
- Center for Bioethics and Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 333 S. Columbia Street, Campus Box 7240, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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Abstract
Although programmes to reduce vertical transmission of HIV mean fewer children are acquiring HIV, more needs to be done to understand the longer term outcomes of exposure, say Vundli Ramokolo and colleagues
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Affiliation(s)
- Vundli Ramokolo
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
| | - Ameena E Goga
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- HIV Prevention Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, South Africa
| | - Amy L Slogrove
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health and Ukwanda Centre for Rural Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Worcester, South Africa
| | - Kathleen M Powis
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, USA
- Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, USA
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
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Vazquez L, Moll AP, Kacin A, Ndlovu NE, Shenoi SV. Perceptions of HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis Among Young Pregnant Women from Rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2019; 33:214-219. [PMID: 31067125 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2018.0242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Young sub-Saharan women are at particularly high risk of HIV acquisition during pregnancy and the postpartum period and would potentially benefit from preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). From June to August 2016, we interviewed 187 HIV negative pregnant women 18-24 years old in Tugela Ferry, Kwazulu-Natal province, a rural and among the poorest subdistricts in South Africa. Demographic data, HIV and PrEP knowledge, HIV risk, and readiness for oral tenofovir-based PrEP were collected using an information-motivation-behavior model-formatted instrument. Mean age was 20.3 years, 179 (95.7%) were unemployed, and 137 (73.3%) reported sex with one partner in the last month. Most were concerned that their sexual partner (95.2%) potentially had HIV or had other sexual partners in the last month (36.4%). Despite this, only 7 (3.7%) women reported that condoms had been used consistently during sex; most (97.3%) felt powerless to negotiate condom use with their partner. There was widespread interest in taking PrEP (97.3%), and most women (>97%) reported possessing the skills to take pills regularly, would commit to monthly visits, and were motivated to remain HIV negative to take care of their families. Young pregnant rural South African women are cognizant of their HIV risk and interested in prevention. Impending motherhood may portend increased interest in HIV prevention. We identified three potential obstacles to successful PrEP rollout among young pregnant women: hesitation about PrEP effectiveness (46%), perceived HIV stigma (53.5%), and risk compensation through decreased condom use (9.6%). Comparative studies of motivations, skills, and rates of initiation and adherence among pregnant and nonpregnant women are needed to inform optimal implementation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Vazquez
- Bridgeport Hospital Internal Medicine, Bridgeport, Connecticut
| | | | - Alexa Kacin
- Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Sheela V. Shenoi
- AIDS Program, Department of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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A Missed Opportunity for U.S. Perinatal Human Immunodeficiency Virus Elimination: Pre-exposure Prophylaxis During Pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol 2017; 130:703-709. [PMID: 28885420 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000002258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the proportion of women at increased risk of sexual human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition during pregnancy in a high HIV incidence urban setting to identify those who may be eligible for pre-exposure prophylaxis. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of women who received prenatal care at a large academic center in 2012. Univariable analyses and multiple logistic regression models were built to identify correlates for pre-exposure prophylaxis eligibility. RESULTS Among 1,637 pregnant women, mean age was 27.6 years (SD 6.3), 59.7% were African American, and 56.0% were single. Based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidelines, more than 10% of women were at increased risk for HIV acquisition during pregnancy and eligible for pre-exposure prophylaxis. Younger [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.9/1-year increase, 95% CI 0.8-0.9], single (adjusted OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2-4.8), African American women (adjusted OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.6-6.7) with higher parity (adjusted OR 1.3/one-child increase, 95% CI 1.1-1.5), and who smoked regularly during pregnancy (adjusted OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.0-3.0) had greater odds of being eligible for pre-exposure prophylaxis at any time during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Pregnancy is a vulnerable period during which some heterosexual women in urban settings have a high risk for HIV acquisition and stand to benefit from pre-exposure prophylaxis.
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Narasimhan M, Celum C, Askew I, Kiarie J, van der Poel S. Supporting people living with HIV in serodiscordant partnerships to attempt a desired pregnancy by integrating sexual and reproductive health and HIV interventions. J Int AIDS Soc 2017; 20:21829. [PMID: 28361499 PMCID: PMC5461117 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.2.21829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Manjulaa Narasimhan
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Connie Celum
- International Clinical Research Center, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ian Askew
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - James Kiarie
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sheryl van der Poel
- Independent Researcher, Geneva, Switzerland
- Population Council, Washington, DC, USA
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