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Kottke MJ, Sales JM, Goedken P, Brown JL, Hatfield-Timajchy K, Koumans EH, Hardin JW, Kraft JM, Kourtis AP. 2gether: A Clinic-Based Intervention to Increase Dual Protection from Sexually Transmitted Infections and Pregnancy in Young African American Females. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2023; 32:29-38. [PMID: 36413049 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2022.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: To determine whether the 2gether intervention increases use of a dual protection (DP; concurrent prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections [STIs]) strategy and decreases pregnancy and STIs among young African American females, who disproportionately experience these outcomes. Materials and Methods: We conducted a randomized clinical trial comparing the 2gether intervention to standard of care (SOC). Participants were self-identified African American females aged 14-19 years who were sexually active with a male partner in the past 6 months. Participants were followed for 12 months; 685 were included in the analytic sample. The primary biologic outcome was time to any incident biologic event (chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomonas infections, or pregnancy). The primary behavioral outcomes were use of and adherence to a DP strategy. Results: 2gether intervention participants had a decreased hazard of chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomonas infections, or pregnancy during follow-up, hazard ratio = 0.73 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58-0.92), and were more likely to report use of condoms plus contraception, generally, adjusted risk ratio (aRR) = 1.61 (95% CI 1.15-2.26) and condoms plus an implant or intrauterine device (IUD), specifically, aRR = 2.11 (95% CI 1.35-3.29) in the prior 3 months compared with those receiving SOC. 2gether participants were also more likely to report use of condoms plus an implant or IUD at last sex and consistently over the prior 3 months. Conclusions: 2gether was efficacious in increasing use of condoms with contraception and decreasing pregnancy or selected STIs in our participants. Implementation of this intervention in clinical settings serving young people with high rates of pregnancy and STIs may be beneficial. ClinicalTrials.gov, No. NCT02291224 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02291224?term=2gether&draw=2&rank=5).
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Kottke
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Jane Fonda Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jessica M Sales
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Peggy Goedken
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Jane Fonda Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jennifer L Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Kendra Hatfield-Timajchy
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Emilia H Koumans
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - James W Hardin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Joan Marie Kraft
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Athena P Kourtis
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Shallie PD, Haffejee F. Systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the knowledge and use of the female condom among Nigerians. Afr Health Sci 2021; 21:1362-1374. [PMID: 35222602 PMCID: PMC8843269 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v21i3.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The female condom (FC) is a critical component in a comprehensive and sustainable approach to prevent HIV, other sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies. Objectives This review provides comprehensive information about Nigerian's knowledge and use of FC. Methods We screened search output, evaluated study eligibility, and extracted data in duplicate. Data from similar studies were combined in a meta-analysis. Results There was a significantly (p < 0.0001) high-level of awareness amongst the respondents. However, the use of the FC was very low at 5.5% among female respondents. There was a significant (p < 0.0001) difference between FC awareness and use. The main reasons for FC use were prevention of unintended pregnancy (55%) and STIs/HIV (31%). We observed a significant difference between reasons of non-use of the FC [F (5, 13) = 5.195, P = 0.0077]. Furthermore, there were significant differences between the sources of information on FC [F (3, 8) = 32.89, P < 0.0001]. Conclusion Despite the high levels of awareness, especially among the female respondents, the use of the FC has remained extremely low even among the young, educated undergraduate students. There is aneed for robust and consistent advocacy to make the FC available and affordable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philemon Dauda Shallie
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,Department of Anatomy, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Firoza Haffejee
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Pensak MJ, Lundsberg LS, Stanwood NL, Cutler AS, Gariepy AM. Development and Feasibility Testing of a Video Game to Reduce High-Risk Heterosexual Behavior in Spanish-Speaking Latinx Adolescents: Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Serious Games 2020; 8:e17295. [PMID: 32364507 PMCID: PMC7235807 DOI: 10.2196/17295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Similar to broader health disparities, Latinx adolescents have higher rates of high-risk sexual behavior resulting in pregnancy rates that are 2 times higher and sexually transmitted infection rates that are 5 to 8 times higher than non-Hispanic, white adolescents. Novel approaches are needed to reduce high-risk sexual behavior among Spanish-speaking Latinx adolescents who represent the fastest-growing group of US immigrants. Objective This study aimed to partner with Spanish-speaking Latinx adolescents in a participatory design process to develop and test a Spanish-language video game intervention to decrease high-risk heterosexual behavior. Methods This is an iterative, two-phase, mixed methods study. In phase 1, we conducted focus groups with Spanish-speaking Latinx adolescents to elicit feedback on the content and format of an existing English-language video game. Feedback was then incorporated into an expanded and culturally adapted Spanish-language video game. In phase 2, we pilot tested the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of the new Spanish-language video game intervention by measuring known antecedents to sexual behavior (intentions, self-efficacy, risk perception, and knowledge) assessed at enrollment and 12-week follow-up. We applied a thematic analysis to examine focus group feedback and a bivariate analysis to analyze pre- and postquantitative data. Results In phase 1, 15 Spanish-speaking Latinx adolescents provided feedback for further video game development. A Spanish-language video game was then produced and tested in phase 2. We recruited and enrolled 24 Spanish-speaking Latinx adolescents aged 15 to 17 years. Participants played the video game for an average of 4.2 hours during monitored sessions. Pilot testing demonstrated feasibility and acceptability; 65% (3/20) of participants stated that they would play it again, and 65% (3/20) said they would recommend it to friends. Condom-specific knowledge did significantly increase between baseline and follow-up (P=.007). Other variables of sexual behavior antecedents did not differ significantly between baseline and 12-week follow-up. Conclusions An iterative participatory design process in partnership with Spanish-speaking adolescents produced an innovative and acceptable Spanish-language video game intervention aimed at decreasing high-risk sexual behavior in adolescents. Pilot testing demonstrated preliminary feasibility and yielded essential information for further video game development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith J Pensak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Lisbet S Lundsberg
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Nancy L Stanwood
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Abigail S Cutler
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Aileen M Gariepy
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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Wheeler NJ, Upadhya KK, Tawe MS, Tomaszewski K, Arrington-Sanders R, Marcell AV. Integrating Pregnancy Prevention Into an HIV Counseling and Testing Program in Pediatric Primary Care. J Adolesc Health 2018; 63:50-56. [PMID: 29655517 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Certified health educator (CHE)-based HIV counseling and testing typically focus on HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention only. A quality improvement initiative examined integrating assessment of reproductive life plans, counseling about pregnancy prevention, and contraception referral into a CHE-based HIV testing program. METHODS Between February 2014 and January 2017, in one urban pediatric primary care clinic serving patients aged 0-25, CHEs assessed sexual history, HIV risk, short-term (i.e., the next 6-12 months) pregnancy desire, and current contraception method and satisfaction among patients aged 13-25 who had ever had vaginal sex, using a standardized questionnaire. Data were analyzed using a de-identified administrative dataset that also tracked referrals to initiate contraception and actual method initiation. RESULTS Of 1,211 patients, most (96%) reported no short-term pregnancy or partner pregnancy desire. Use of less effective or no contraception, as well as method dissatisfaction, was common. A high proportion of female patients referred to new methods opted for more effective methods (62%) and initiated these methods (76%); a high proportion of male patients opted for receipt of condoms (67%). Patients reporting short-term pregnancy desire reported higher rates of previous pregnancy and STIs. CONCLUSIONS Program findings highlight the potential benefit of integrating assessment for and counseling about pregnancy prevention in a CHE-based HIV testing program. This can more effectively address the needs of patients with concomitant risks of STI/HIV and unintended pregnancy, and link patients who do not desire pregnancy to more effective methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah J Wheeler
- Department of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Krishna K Upadhya
- Department of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Marie-Sophie Tawe
- Department of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kathy Tomaszewski
- Department of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Renata Arrington-Sanders
- Department of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Arik V Marcell
- Department of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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Jones DL, Echenique M, Potter J, Rodriguez VJ, Weiss SM, Fischl MA. Adolescent girls and young women living with HIV: preconception counseling strategies. Int J Womens Health 2017; 9:657-663. [PMID: 29066934 PMCID: PMC5605185 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s136668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rates of pregnancy among women living with HIV are similar to those in the general population. Unintended pregnancies are also common, and among adolescents and young women perinatally infected (PHIV+) or behaviorally infected (BHIV+) with HIV, planning for both conception and contraception is an important element of HIV care that may be neglected. This pilot study examined the influence of intervention strategies targeting fertility planning, safer conception practices and patient-provider communication. It was hypothesized that preconception counseling interventions would enhance reproductive knowledge, planning and practices, as well as stimulate discussion with providers regarding conception. Methods Adolescent girls and young women (N=34) perinatally (n=21) or behaviorally (n=13) infected with HIV, aged 16–29 years, were recruited from urban South Florida, and completed measures of reproductive knowledge, sexual practices and fertility intentions. Participants were randomized to condition, ie, video presentation plus Motivational Interviewing (MI), MI only, control. Results The average age of women was 22 years (SD =3.27), and the majority of them were African American. Levels of depression were higher among BHIV+ compared to PHIV+ at baseline and 6 months. Pregnancy knowledge (pregnancy, safe conception and pregnancy planning) and the proportion of those engaging in birth control planning (condom use, long-term birth control, patient-provider discussions on preventing pregnancy and fertility desires) were similar between conditions at post-intervention and 6 months. Bayes factors indicated that the data were insensitive with regard to differences between conditions, limiting support for both the null and alternative hypotheses. Conclusion The impact of interventions used in this study to stimulate pregnancy planning was inconclusive. Results suggest that pregnancy planning interventions may require greater intensity to influence sexual behavior in this population. Despite adequate reproductive knowledge, HIV-infected adolescent girls and young women may fail to engage in planning behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Margaret A Fischl
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Balachova T, Shaboltas A, Nasledov A, Chaffin M, Batluk J, Bohora S, Bonner B, Bryant K, Tsvetkova L, Volkova E. Alcohol and HIV Risk Among Russian Women of Childbearing Age. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:1857-1867. [PMID: 27605367 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1542-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Russia has one of the fastest rising rates of HIV among women in the world. This study sought to identify key factors in HIV transmission among women in Russia. Data were collected as part of a larger clinical trial to prevent alcohol-exposed pregnancies (AEP). Women at risk for an AEP were recruited at women's clinics; 708 women, aged 18-44 (M = 29.04 years), completed HIV risk surveys. Structural Equation Modeling was used to test the relationships between alcohol use and sex behavior constructs with HIV/STI risk. While the model indicated that multiple factors are involved in women's HIV/STI risk, the independent alcohol use variable explains 20 % of the variance in women's HIV/STI risk. The findings suggest that alcohol use directly and indirectly predicts HIV/STI risk among women, and its effect is mediated by alcohol use before sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Balachova
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 940 N.E. 13th Street, Nicholson Tower, Suite 4900, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Alla Shaboltas
- Psychology Department, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Andrey Nasledov
- Psychology Department, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Mark Chaffin
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 940 N.E. 13th Street, Nicholson Tower, Suite 4900, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Julia Batluk
- Psychology Department, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Som Bohora
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 940 N.E. 13th Street, Nicholson Tower, Suite 4900, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Barbara Bonner
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 940 N.E. 13th Street, Nicholson Tower, Suite 4900, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Kendall Bryant
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, USA
| | - Larissa Tsvetkova
- Psychology Department, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elena Volkova
- Psychology Department, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
- Nizhny Novgorod State Pedagogical University, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
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Ewing AC, Kottke MJ, Kraft JM, Sales JM, Brown JL, Goedken P, Wiener J, Kourtis AP. 2GETHER - The Dual Protection Project: Design and rationale of a randomized controlled trial to increase dual protection strategy selection and adherence among African American adolescent females. Contemp Clin Trials 2017; 54:1-7. [PMID: 28007634 PMCID: PMC5890330 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2016.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND African American adolescent females are at elevated risk for unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Dual protection (DP) is defined as concurrent prevention of pregnancy and STIs. This can be achieved by abstinence, consistent condom use, or the dual methods of condoms plus an effective non-barrier contraceptive. Previous clinic-based interventions showed short-term effects on increasing dual method use, but evidence of sustained effects on dual method use and decreased incident pregnancies and STIs are lacking. METHODS/DESIGN This manuscript describes the 2GETHER Project. 2GETHER is a randomized controlled trial of a multi-component intervention to increase dual protection use among sexually active African American females aged 14-19years not desiring pregnancy at a Title X clinic in Atlanta, GA. The intervention is clinic-based and includes a culturally tailored interactive multimedia component and counseling sessions, both to assist in selection of a DP method and to reinforce use of the DP method. The participants are randomized to the study intervention or the standard of care, and followed for 12months to evaluate how the intervention influences DP method selection and adherence, pregnancy and STI incidence, and participants' DP knowledge, intentions, and self-efficacy. DISCUSSION The 2GETHER Project is a novel trial to reduce unintended pregnancies and STIs among African American adolescents. The intervention is unique in the comprehensive and complementary nature of its components and its individual tailoring of provider-patient interaction. If the trial interventions are shown to be effective, then it will be reasonable to assess their scalability and applicability in other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander C Ewing
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Melissa J Kottke
- Jane Fonda Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joan Marie Kraft
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jessica M Sales
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jennifer L Brown
- Addiction Sciences Division, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Peggy Goedken
- Jane Fonda Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jeffrey Wiener
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Athena P Kourtis
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Maksut JL, Eaton LA. Female Condoms=Missed Opportunities: Lessons Learned from Promotion-centered Interventions. Womens Health Issues 2015; 25:366-76. [PMID: 26048756 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2015.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The female condom is a barrier contraceptive device that is underutilized despite its effectiveness at preventing both unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Prior research has highlighted that the underuse of the female condom as a contraceptive option is owing in large part to social stigma, and lacking or incorrect information about the product. METHODS In an attempt to better understand the discrepancy between the female condom's documented effectiveness and its general lack of uptake, we conducted a systematic search and qualitatively reviewed 20 published intervention studies that focus on efforts to promote the female condom. The strategies that each intervention used were coded and carefully examined. We obtained information regarding relevant characteristics of the studies, including intervention setting, sampling strategy, participant demographics, and methodology used. RESULTS We found that the majority of the studies had significant positive findings concerning the female condom, for example, many were effective at demonstrating participant uptake as well as increasing the number of protected sex acts. Additionally, perceived ability to use the device was a significant predictor of female condom use in multiple studies. Finally, the studies tended to include younger women; only 10.0% (n=2) reported having participants with a mean age older than 30), meaning that older women generally have not been well-served by previous efforts to promote the use of the female condom. CONCLUSIONS We offer guidelines for improving female condom uptake and recommendations for future research that seeks to establish and utilize best practice promotional strategies for female condoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Maksut
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut.
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
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Jones PL, Baker JL, Gelaude D, King W, Jemmott L. Lessons learned from field-testing a brief behavioral intervention package for African American women at risk for HIV/STDs. Health Promot Pract 2013; 14:168-73. [PMID: 23446059 DOI: 10.1177/1524839912474276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article describes how Sister to Sister, an evidence-based HIV/STD intervention for African American women in clinical settings, was prepared for national dissemination using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Replicating Effective Programs research translation process. To test the feasibility of the intervention in the "real world," Sister to Sister's original research team collaborated with community partners to field-test the intervention in three clinical settings. Experiences from field-testing and input from a community advisory board were used to translate research protocols into a package of user-friendly materials that could be easily adopted by frontline clinic staff throughout the nation. Process monitoring and evaluation data demonstrated that Sister to Sister could be implemented successfully by a variety of practitioners including nurses, health educators, and HIV test counselors. "Buy-in" from clinic administrators and providers was a prerequisite to the success of the intervention. Replicating Effective Programs provided a useful process that can be applied by others to successfully prepare evidence-based interventions such as Sister to Sister for national dissemination.
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Murray CC, Hatfield-Timajchy K, Kraft JM, Bergdall AR, Habel MA, Kottke M, Diclemente RJ. In their own words: romantic relationships and the sexual health of young African American women. Public Health Rep 2013; 128 Suppl 1:33-42. [PMID: 23450883 PMCID: PMC3562744 DOI: 10.1177/00333549131282s104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We assessed young African American women's understanding of "dual protection" (DP) (i.e., strategies that simultaneously protect against unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases [STDs]) and how relationship factors influence their use of DP methods. METHODS We conducted 10 focus groups with African American women (n=51) aged 15-24 years in Atlanta, Georgia, to identify barriers to and facilitators of their DP use. Focus group participants also completed a brief self-administered questionnaire that assessed demographics and sexual behaviors. We analyzed focus group data by theme: relationships, planning for sex, pregnancy intentions, STD worries, the trade-off between pregnancy and STDs, attitudes toward condoms and contraceptives, and understanding of DP. RESULTS From the questionnaire, 51% of participants reported that an STD would be the "worst thing that could happen," and 26% reported that being pregnant would be "terrible." Focus group data suggested that most participants understood what DP was but thought it was not always feasible. Relationship factors (e.g., trust, intimacy, length of relationship, and centrality) affected pregnancy intentions, STD concerns, and use of DP. Social influences (e.g., parents) and pregnancy and STD history also affected attitudes about pregnancy, STDs, and relationships. CONCLUSIONS Although participants identified risks associated with sex, a complex web of social and relationship factors influenced the extent to which they engaged in protective behavior. The extent to which relationship factors influence DP may reflect developmental tasks of adolescence and should be considered in any program promoting sexual health among young African American women.
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Carter MW, Hock-Long L, Kraft JM, Henry-Moss D, Hatfield-Timajchy K, Singer M. Strategies for managing the dual risk of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy among Puerto Rican and African American young adults. Am J Public Health 2012; 102:449-56. [PMID: 22390507 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2011.300461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Although young adults in the United States are at increased risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy, they do not report high rates of dual-method use (condoms plus other contraception) for prevention. We used prospective qualitative data from 69 urban Puerto Rican and African American individuals aged 18 to 25 years to determine how they managed these risks in their heterosexual relationships during a 4- to 8-week period. Hormonal or long-acting contraceptive use, condoms, and withdrawal were the most common unintended pregnancy prevention strategies; condoms, STI testing, and perceived fidelity were dominant among STI prevention strategies. We need to shift the focus from dual-method use toward a broader concept of dual protection to be more responsive to young adults' concerns, perceptions, and priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion W Carter
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
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O'Leary A. Are dual-method messages undermining STI/HIV prevention? Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2011; 2011:691210. [PMID: 22144850 PMCID: PMC3227437 DOI: 10.1155/2011/691210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2011] [Revised: 08/01/2011] [Accepted: 09/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women who are at risk for unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STI), including HIV, are frequently counseled to use a hormonal contraceptive to protect against the former and condoms to protect against the latter, for example, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2011. The present paper reviews the literature on multiple risk messages, compliance with this dual-use recommendation, predictors of dual use, and interventions developed to encourage dual use. Data indicate that simultaneous use of these two methods is not common, and that efforts to encourage dual use have not yielded promising results. An alternative is to recommend condom use alone, since condoms protect very well against STI and HIV, and quite well against pregnancy when used consistently and correctly. The availability of emergency contraception is relevant here. Research utilizing a randomized controlled trial is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann O'Leary
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and Tuberculosis Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, MS E-37, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
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