HIV testing among low-income African-American mothers

HIV testing patterns were examined among low-income African Americans who were mothers of young school-age children. In-person interviews were conducted to determine whether African-American women had been tested for HIV; their sexual behaviors, including the number of sexual partners and condom use; and health care access and utilization. Forty-one percent of the women had been tested for HIV; 18 percent tested more than once. Levels of education, source of primary health care, and type of insurance were not associated with HIV testing. The total number of sexual partners for their current lifetime and within the past five years was significantly associated with their HIV testing status (chi 2 = 39.97; DF = 3; p < .01 and chi 2 = 66.68; DF = 3; p < .01 respectively). Women who have used condoms during their last intercourse (20%) were less likely to have been tested than women who did not use a condom (50%) (p < .01). Results suggest that low-income African-American women get tested for HIV. This suggests that these women understand the concept of risk and how certain behaviors may place them at risk. However, these women still confront conditions that place them at risk, such as having sex with multiple partners and/or partners with a history of incarceration, in addition to drug use. HIV testing may not serve as the most effective intervention for this sub-population of women. Educational and preventive measures should extend to women outside traditional high-risk populations by incorporating methods to promote protective behavioral changes which will empower women with self-esteem and confidence.