Untapped Potential for Safer Conception Messaging to Transform PrEP Rollout and Promote Service Engagement Among Serodiscordant Couples.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2022

Identifier

DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03584-x

Abstract

Uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) fell short of targets for Sub-Saharan Africa's initial rollout, revealing the need for more effective promotion strategies. In Uganda, we explored potential benefits and challenges of integrating safer conception messaging to promote PrEP among serodiscordant couples. In-depth interviews were conducted with clients and personnel at three clinics and analyzed thematically. Participants (n = 58) valued PrEP as a safer conception method (SCM) but described lack of integration of safer conception and PrEP services as well as inconsistent practices in prescribing PrEP to couples pursuing conception. Participants reported that the wider population remains largely unaware of PrEP and SCM or harbors misconceptions that PrEP is primarily for highly stigmatized groups like sex workers. Participants further described how heterosexual couples can still be reluctant to test for HIV, unaware of tools like PrEP and SCM that would allow them to continue their relationship and/or pursuit of childbearing. Overall, findings suggest that integrating PrEP and SCM in messaging and services targeting serodiscordant couples holds untapped benefits throughout the HIV prevention cascade.

Journal Title

AIDS and behavior

Volume

26

Issue

7

First Page

2397

Last Page

2408

MeSH Keywords

Anti-HIV Agents; Fertilization; HIV Infections; Humans; Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis; Sexual Partners

Keywords

Demand creation; HIV; HIV testing; Pre-exposure prophylaxis; Safer conception; Serodiscordant couples; Sub-Saharan Africa; Uganda

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