HIV infection in women: impact on contraception

A study was performed to evaluate the impact of knowledge of HIV infection (diagnosis) on contraception information and choices for HIV infected women. A questionnaire was given to 140 HIV infected women. Most of the studied population included young women with a low educational level. A significant increase in the knowledge of contraceptive methods was observed after diagnosis of being HIV infected. The data suggested that the women who received information had never received it before, or that the diagnosis created a stronger motivation to listen to the counseling offered. A significant increase in the use of contraceptive methods was also found, especially male condoms and tubal ligation. Total number of children had a strong impact on contraceptive method at the time of interview. Only 5 of 23 HIV infected women who had no children used hormonal contraceptives, while 15 of 23 preferred condom use, and 3 of 23 chose not to use any contraceptive method. Tubal ligation was performed in approximately 9% of the women who had only one child. However, 12.4% of the sexually active HIV infected women were still not using any contraceptive method at the time of the interview. A combined method (male condom plus another contraceptive) was used by only 27% of sexually active HIV infected women, despite health service counseling. In conclusion, the realization of being HIV infected had a strong impact on contraceptive practice among these women. It is expected that HIV and family planning clinics will address HIV infected women's needs and be prepared to integrate contraception and gynecological care.