Many Clients Need Dual Protection
For sexually active people who need contraception and are at risk
of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), there are two ways to
reduce both risks: Two contraceptives can be used (one highly
effective for pregnancy prevention and the male or female condom), or
a condom can be used for both purposes.
HIV-positive Women Have Different
Needs
In settings where HIV prevalence is high, family planning providers
should discuss with clients how HIV can affect family health. Counseling
HIV-positive Women offers a concise list of key points to discuss
with women who are already infected. HIV-infected
Women Less Fertile discusses the fertility of HIV-infected women.
Reaching Youth, Men May Improve
Services
Serving more men and adolescents in family planning and maternal
health programs is one way programs can help prevent the spread of
STIs, including HIV.
Does Circumcision Reduce HIV Risks?
While there is some evidence to support the belief that
circumcision can reduce HIV infection risks, promoting circumcision as
a way to guard against infection may not be appropriate. Removing
Specialized Cells May Explain Protective Effect offers a summary
of research on how circumcision may reduce HIV infection risks.
Condom Offers STI Protection
Among barrier contraceptive methods, the male condom offers the
best protection against STIs, including HIV. Do
Contraceptives Protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections? is
a chart of each contraceptive method and whether each offers
protection against specific viral and bacterial infections.
N-9 Protection against HIV Doubtful
A recent study raises concerns about the ability of nonoxynol-9
(N-9) to protect against HIV. A related article reviews studies that
indicate Anal Intercourse
Presents Serious HIV/STI Risks.
Do Hormonals Affect STI Risks?
Largely due to study design difficulties, research is conflicting
on whether hormonal methods of contraception affect the acquisition of
STIs, including HIV.
Contraceptive Update: Oral
Contraceptives and Breast Cancer Risks
A recent study suggests a link between high-dose combined oral
contraceptives that were discontinued years ago and an increased risk
of breast cancer among women with a strong family history of the
disease.
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