Factors that influence vulnerability to STDs and HIV/AIDS among Hispanic women

Self-esteem, motivation for sexual health, and sexual risk behaviors as indicated by condom use and number of sex partners was explored in a sample of 140 Hispanic women of childbearing age (18-44 years). The researchers used Cox's Interaction Model of Client Health Behavior (IMCHB) as the conceptual framework for the study. They found that 70% (n = 79) of single women reported condom use with their most recent sexual partner, and 49% (n = 55) of single women reported more than one sexual partner in the last 12 months. Self-esteem and motivation for sexual health were significantly associated (r =.42, p =.001), although only the latter was related to condom use among single women (r =.29, p =.01). Women who reported higher self-esteem were less likely to worry about acquiring sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Despite public information about STDs, including HIV/AIDS, a proportion of these women and their partners are vulnerable to these diseases. Health promotion implications are discussed.