Sexually transmitted infections among women who have sex with women

Women who have sex with women (WSW) are a diverse group with variations in sexual identity, sexual behaviors, sexual practices, and risk behaviors. WSW are at risk of acquiring bacterial, viral, and protozoal sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from current and prior partners, both male and female. Bacterial vaginosis is common among women in general and even more so among women with female partners. WSW should not be presumed to be at low or no risk for STIs based on sexual orientation, and reporting of same-sex behavior by women should not deter providers from considering and performing screening for STIs, including chlamydia, in their clients according to current guidelines. Effective delivery of sexual health services to WSW requires a comprehensive and open discussion of sexual and behavioral risks, beyond sexual identity, between care providers and their female clients.     

Genital human papillomavirus infection in women who have sex with women: a concern for patients and providers

Certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) are sexually transmitted and cause genital warts and cervical neoplasia. Little is known about the epidemiology of HPV among women who have sex with women (WSW), but recent research using amplified techniques for HPV DNA strongly suggests that HPV is sexually transmitted between female sex partners. In a pilot study of 149 WSW in Seattle, Washington, prevalence of HPV as detected by DNA amplification assay was 30%, and was 19% among women reporting no prior sex with men. Although most cervical cancer can be prevented with Pap smear screening by detection of squamous epithelial lesions (SIL), some data suggest that the frequency of Pap smear screening is suboptimal in WSW. Reasons for this are unclear, but may include perceptions by patients and providers that WSW are not at risk for many STD and, by extension, cervical cancer. In our study, WSW who reported no prior sex with men had routine Pap smear screening less frequently than the comparative group, and had a prevalence of SIL of 14%. Combined with the work of other investigators, these data strongly suggest that current recommendations for Pap smear screening among WSW should not differ from those for heterosexual women. WSW and their providers should understand that sex between women may confer a risk of HPV transmission; risk of transmission of other STD, including HIV, deserves further study.     

Sexual Risk and Substance Use Behaviors Among African American Men Who Have Sex with Men and Women

African American men who have sex with men and women (MSMW), but who do not form a sexual identity around same-sex behavior, may experience risk for HIV infection and transmission. This paper reports cross-sectional survey findings on sexual behaviors and substance use of urban non-gay- or non-bisexual-identified African American MSMW (n = 68), who completed behavior assessment surveys using audio-computer assisted self-interviewing technology. Overall, 17.6% reported being HIV-positive. In the past 3 months, 70.6% had unprotected insertive sex with a female, 51.5% had unprotected insertive anal sex (UIAS) with a male, 33.8% had unprotected receptive anal sex (URAS) with a male, 25% had UIAS with a transgender female, and 10.3% had URAS with a transgender female. Findings indicated a bridging potential for HIV and sexually transmitted infections across groups, such that 38.2% reported concurrent unprotected sex with female and male partners and 17.6% reported concurrent unprotected sex with female and transgender female partners. In the past 3 months, 70.6% used alcohol before sex and 85% used drugs before sex. Men who used drugs before sex had a tenfold increased likelihood for unprotected sex with male partners, and men who injected drugs had a nearly fivefold increased likelihood for unprotected sex with a transgender female. Interventions to address sexual risk behaviors, especially partner concurrency, and substance use behavior for these men are warranted.     

Vulnerability to HIV Among Women Formerly Incarcerated and Women with Incarcerated Sexual Partners

HIV risk was assessed in association with a history of incarceration and having a sexual partner with a history of incarceration in a population sample of low-income young women residing in San Francisco. Of the 235 women surveyed, 23% reported prior incarceration and 42% reported having a sexual partner with a history of incarceration. Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (including HIV) was no higher among previously incarcerated women or those with a sexual partner with a history of incarceration. Women with a prior incarceration were significantly more likely to report injecting drugs, exchanging sex for money or drugs, and history of forced sex. Women reporting sexual partners with a history of incarceration were significantly more likely to report incarceration history, history of STIs, and history of forced sex. Interventions aimed at reducing substance abuse, STIs, commercial/survival sex, and the effects of sexual coercion need to be strengthened for women within and transitioning out of correctional facilities.     

HIV, STIs, and sexual behaviors among men who have sex with men in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

A probability sample of 206 men who have sex with men from 16 sites in Phnom Penh were surveyed about sexual behaviors and tested for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). HIV and syphilis prevalence was 14.4% and 5.5%, respectively. Out of the total sample, 81% reported anal sex with any male partners in the past 6 months, and 61.2% reported having had vaginal sex. In the past 6 months, 82.8% of the sample reported having male partners who paid them to have sex. Self-reported sexual orientation did not match well with self-reported sexual behavior. Significant risk factors for HIV infection were anal sex with multiple partners, unprotected vaginal sex with commercial female partners in the past month, and any STI. Complex sexual networks indicate that men who have sex with men act as a bridge between higher and lower HIV prevalence populations. Better prevention efforts structured around behaviors rather than sexual identities are needed.     

Male clients of female commercial sex workers: HIV, STDs and risk behaviour

Social stigma and taboo limit current understanding of sexual behaviours and epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in clients of commercial sex workers/prostitutes. We designed a study to determine risk behaviours and prevalence of STIs in a group of sexual health clinic attending male clients of female commercial sex workers (FCSWs) in Sydney, and to compare these characteristics with men who denied any commercial sexual contact. Eight hundred and ninety cases and 2670 controls were included. Clients of FCSWs were older, more likely to be married and of non-English speaking background than controls. Clients had more sexual partners but reported more condom usage than controls. Prevalence of STIs at presentation was lower in clients than controls but clients were more likely to report STIs in the past than controls. HIV prevalence was low in both groups.     

Sexual assault history and risks for sexually transmitted infections among women in an African township in Cape Town, South Africa

Sexual violence is associated with women's risks for HIV infection. The current study investigated factors related to risks for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, among South African women with a history of sexual assault. An anonymous street intercept survey of women (N = 272) living in an African township in the Western Cape, South Africa assessed demographic characteristics, history of sexual assault, HIV risk behaviours, substance use and non-sexual relationship abuse. Surveys were completed by 90% of women approached. Forty-four per cent (N = 119) of women reported a history of sexual assault. Multiple logistic regressions, controlling for participant age, education, marital status and survey venue, showed that women who had been sexually assaulted were significantly more likely to have shared injection drug equipment, exchanged sex to meet survival needs, and used alcohol compared to women who had not been sexually assaulted. Women with a history of sexual assault were also significantly more likely to have multiple male sex partners, greater rates of unprotected vaginal intercourse, lower rates of condom protected anal intercourse, more sexual contacts involving blood, more STIs and genital ulcers. Finally, women who had been sexually assaulted were more likely to have been non-sexually abused by relationship partners and were more likely to fear asking partners to use condoms. There is a close connection between sexual assault and women's risks for STIs and HIV. Structural and behavioural interventions are needed to simultaneously reduce the prevalence of sexual assault against women and prevent the transmission of HIV.     

Combined Impact of Sexual Risk Behaviors for HIV Seroconversion Among Women in Durban, South Africa: Implications for Prevention Policy and Planning

The objective of this study was to estimate the joint impact of demographic and sexual risk behaviors on HIV acquisition. A total of 2,523 HIV seronegative women were recruited through three community based studies in Durban, South Africa. Point and interval estimates of partial population attributable risk (PAR) were used to quantify the proportion of HIV seroconversions which can be prevented if a combination of risk factors is eliminated from a target population. More than 80% of the observed HIV acquisitions were attributed to five risk factors: lack of cohabitation, frequency of sex, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), incidence of pregnancy and not being employed/no income. Structural factors such as minimizing migratory patterns by ensuring cohabitation of partners, access to treatment of STIs, income generation and safe sex negotiation skills are likely to play an important role in future prevention strategies.     

Desire for pregnancy and risk behavior in young HIV-positive women

This cross-sectional study utilized data from 130 young women with behaviorally acquired HIV to examine the association between desire for pregnancy (DFP) and both sociodemographic variables and sexual risk behaviors. A single item was utilized to assess DFP. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were conducted. At the bivariate level, DFP was associated with increased rates of intercourse, decreased condom use, increased partner concurrency, increased rates of unprotected sex with a nonconcordant partner, and a higher number of previous sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Multivariate analyses suggested that DFP was associated with increased likelihood of recent intercourse, condom-unprotected sex, and oral sex. DFP was related to few sociodemographic variables but was associated with having fewer children currently, a history of victimization, and decreased rates of disclosure of HIV status. The few sociodemographic variables that were associated with DFP suggest that social relationships may play a role in DFP. DFP was associated with sexual behaviors that may place young women at risk for STI acquisition and secondary HIV transmission to partners. Health care providers should assess DFP in routine HIV care, providing education about fertility options, interventions for vertical transmission, family planning, and risk reduction counseling.     

Normative Beliefs and Sexual Risk in China

We examined normative beliefs about multiple sexual partners and social status in China and their association with risky sexual behaviors and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Self-reported and biological markers of sexual risk were examined among 3,716 market vendors from a city in eastern China. Men who were older or with less education believed having multiple sexual partners was linked to higher social status. Adjusting for demographic characteristics, normative beliefs were significantly associated with having multiple sexual partners, while having multiple sexual partners was significantly associated with STIs. Normative beliefs regarding sexual behaviors may play an important role in individual risk behaviors. Future HIV/STI interventions must address community beliefs about the positive meaning of sexual risks, particularly among men with traditional beliefs about gender roles.     

女女性行为人群的性行为特征和性传播疾病感染状况

目的了解女女性行为人群（WSW）的性行为特征和性传播疾病感染状况，为今后对该人群进行健康教育和行为干预提供理论依据。方法采用定性访谈和定量调查问卷的方法，进行面对面调查。并进行生殖健康检查和艾滋病病毒、乙型肝炎病毒、丙型肝炎病毒和梅毒检测。结果共调查wsw60人，年龄中位数25．o岁。93．9％的wsw人群对性取向认同，其中同性恋占83．3％，双性恋10．0％，异性恋1．7％，未确定5．0％。最近半年与同性发生过性行为的占86．7％，平均性伴数2．3个。有85％与同性发生过手指交，36．7％发生过口交，20％发生过器具交。性行为时以清水冲洗或洗涤用品清洗为主，手交时用清水清洗的占47．1％，口交时清水漱口的占59．1％，器具交时用清水清洗的占33．3％；每次性行为对器具消毒或清洗的为66．6％，共用性器具时每次清洗或消毒的仅为50％。手交时有13．5％，口交时有18．1％的人回答不能每次都清洗或消毒。最近一次与异性发生性行为时使用安全套的为14．3％，器具交时使用安全套的为16．7％，指交时使用指套的为15．7％。阴道拭子检测细菌感染率为2．9％，真菌感染率为5．8％，尖锐湿疣2．9％。结论wsw中存在多性伴现象，缺乏健康知识和防护意识，存在生殖健康危险因素，今后应在该人群中开展有针对性的宣传教育和行为干预。     

Avoidance,Anxiety, and Sex: The Influence of Romantic Attachment on HIV-Risk among Pregnant Women

Most unprotected sex occurs in close relationships. However, few studies examine relational factors and sexual risk among high-risk populations. Romantic Attachment Theory states that individuals have cognitive working models for relationships that influence expectations, affect, and behavior. We investigated the influence of attachment avoidance and anxiety on sexual beliefs (e.g., condom use beliefs, self-efficacy), behavior (e.g., condom use, multiple partners, unprotected sex with risky partners), and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among 755 high-risk, young pregnant women (ages 14a€“25) recruited from urban prenatal clinics. Attachment anxiety predicted sexual beliefs, condom use, and unprotected sex with risky partners controlling for demographic variables. Sexual beliefs did not mediate the relationship between attachment orientation and sexual behavior. Current relationship with the father of the baby did mediate the effect of attachment anxiety on multiple partners and STIs. Results indicate the importance of including general relational factors, such as attachment, in HIV prevention.     

African-American Female Adolescents Who Engage in Oral, Vaginal and Anal Sex: “Doing It All” as a Significant Marker for Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infection

African-American female adolescents who engaged in vaginal sex only (N = 272) were compared to adolescents who engaged in two types (vaginal plus oral or anal; N = 295) and three types (vaginal, oral and anal; N = 144) on a constellation of other sexual risk behaviors (SRBs) and on sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Adjusted contrasts among groups revealed that adolescents who engaged in two and in three types of sex as compared to those who engaged in vaginal sex only were more likely to engage in six of the seven SRBs, but were just as likely to have a STI. One SRB, having ≥ 4 lifetime sex partners, was in turn associated with STI. Two-way interactions indicated that having a casual sex partner and having multiple sex partners in the last 60 days increased the likelihood of STI, but only for adolescents who engaged in all three types.     

High Risk Behaviors and Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Men in Tanzania

We assessed the association between risk behaviors and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men. We interviewed 794 men randomly selected from Moshi district of Tanzania. Blood and urine samples were tested for STIs. About 46% of the men tested positive for at least one STI including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1), herpes simplex virus (HSV-2), syphilis, chlamydia, trichomonas, and mycoplasma infection. Multiple sexual partners, casual sex, alcohol abuse, and older age were associated with higher odds of having an STI. Effective STI prevention programs in sub-Saharan Africa should have components aimed at addressing modifiable risk behaviors in men.     

Psychosexual and social-cognitive correlates of sexual risk behavior among male clients of female sex workers in Tijuana, Mexico

Male clients of female sex workers (FSWs) may act as a bridge to the general population contributing to the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the USA and Mexico. This study used cross-sectional data to identify psychosexual and social-cognitive factors associated with sexual risk behavior in a bi-national sample of 300 male clients of FSWs recruited in Tijuana, Mexico from June to October 2008. In a multiple regression analysis, the number of unprotected vaginal sex acts with FSWs was associated with higher sexual compulsivity scores, lower self-efficacy for condom use, greater use of illicit drugs, and more financial need. Behavioral interventions are urgently needed to assist clients of FSWs in reducing high-risk behaviors in an effort to prevent the spread of HIV/STIs in this high-risk population and their sexual partners.     

Changes in risk behaviors among Thai men who have sex with men and transgender women enrolled in the test and treat cohort

The test-and-treat approach has the potential to reduce high-risk sexual behaviors by linking high-risk individuals to health education, although this has not been proven yet. We used longitudinal data from the Test and Treat Demonstration Project among Thai men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) who were not known to be HIV-positive to analyze changes in risk behaviors during the 24-month study period categorized by three groups: HIV-negative without seroconversion, seroconverters, and HIV-positive at enrollment. Five binary risk behavior outcomes – laboratory-diagnosed sexually transmitted infections (STIs); multiple sexual partners, unprotected anal intercourse, self-perceived HIV risk, and amphetamine-type stimulants use in the past month – were assessed. Among 689 participants, with a mean (SD) age of 23.1 (6.2) years, 165 participants were diagnosed with HIV: 115 at enrollment and 50 with seroconversions. HIV-positive participants at enrollment showed significant reductions in all five behavioral risk outcomes. Seroconverters demonstrated higher risks at enrollment than HIV-negative participants, and continued to practice high-risk behaviors even after seroconversion despite a significant reduction in self-perceived moderate-to-high HIV risk. Continuation of risk behaviors among seroconverters could negatively affect the ending AIDS goal, thus the integration of other effective preventive measures into HIV/STIs management programs are needed.     

HIV Risk Behavior Among HIV-Infected Men Who have Sex with Men in Bangkok, Thailand

We assessed prevalence of sexually transmitted infection (STIs), sexual risk behaviors, and factors associated with risk behaviors among HIV-infected MSM attending a public STI clinic serving MSM in Bangkok, Thailand. Between October 2005–October 2007, 154 HIV-infected MSM attending the clinic were interviewed about sexual risk behaviors and evaluated for STIs. Patients were examined for genital ulcers and had serologic testing for syphilis and PCR testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Results showed that sexual intercourse in the last 3?months was reported by 131 men. Of these, 32% reported anal sex without a condom. STIs were diagnosed in 41%. Factors associated with having sex without a condom were having a steady male partner, having a female partner and awareness of HIV status <1?month. Sexual risk behaviors and STIs were common among HIV-infected MSM in this study. This highlights the need for increased HIV prevention strategies for HIV-infected MSM.     

Sexual behaviors among women living with HIV in Ontario,Canada

Understanding the sexual activities and partnerships of women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains important to promote healthy sexuality and to reduce the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. We described sexual behaviors of women living with HIV enrolled in an ongoing study in Ontario, Canada. Data were available from 582 women who self-completed a sexual behavior questionnaire between 2010 and 2012. Nearly half (46.1%) of women reported a sexual partner in the preceding three months; women less likely to be sexually active were older, Black/African, separated, divorced, widowed, single, and unemployed. Most sexually active women had one partner (76.4%), a regular partner (75.9%), male (96.2%) partner(s), and partners who were HIV-negative or unknown HIV status (75.2%). Women were more likely to use a condom with HIV-negative/status unknown partners (81.3%) than with HIV-positive partners (58.6%; p ?=?.008). Only 8.0% of sexually active women reported condomless sex with a discordant HIV-negative/status unknown partner when their viral load was detectable. Overall, most women living with HIV were sexually inactive or engaged in sexual activities that were low risk for HIV transmission.     

Correlates of Bisexual Behaviors Among Men who have Sex with Men in El Salvador

Bisexual behaviors may increase transmission pathways of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from a higher prevalence group to lower prevalence groups in El Salvador. In 2008, men who have sex with men (MSM) were recruited in San Salvador and San Miguel using respondent driven sampling. Participants were interviewed and tested for HIV and STIs. Sixteen seeds and 797 MSM participated; 34.9% in San Salvador and 58.8% in San Miguel reported bisexual behavior. Bisexual behavior was associated with drug use (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.57, 95% CI: 1.30–5.06) and insertive anal sex (AOR = 5.45, 95% CI: 3.01–9.87), and inversely associated with having a stable male partner (AOR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.26–0.84) and disclosing MSM behavior to family (AOR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.22–0.75). Bisexual behavior was associated with risk behaviors with male and female partners that may be associated with HIV and STI transmission. Bisexual men displayed a distinct identity calling for tailored interventions.     

Sexual Health Risks Among Young Thai Women: Implications for HIV/STD Prevention and Contraception

This paper examines factors that may place female Thai adolescents and young adults at risk for HIV, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and unintended pregnancies. A total of 832 female vocational students participated in a cross-sectional audio-computer-assisted self-interview (ACASI) survey after providing informed consent. The questionnaire covered: sociodemographic characteristics; knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs related to HIV and STDs; contraceptive practices; sexual experiences and behaviors; and drug use. Oral fluid was tested for HIV antibodies and urine was tested for illicit drugs and for the presence of gonococcal or chlamydial nucleic acids. A total of 359 women (43.1%) reported sexual intercourse history, with an average age at first sex of 17.6 years, and a 2.6 mean number of lifetime sex partners. Twenty-one percent of the entire sample reported coerced sexual contact or intercourse. Among those with sexual intercourse experience, 27.3% (n = 98) had been pregnant and the majority of their most recent pregnancies were terminated. Three tested positive for HIV antibodies. Sexually active young Thai women report behaviors or experiences that may expose them to HIV/STD infection and unintended pregnancy in the future. These include unprotected intercourse, sexual coercion, low levels of contraceptive use, and drug and alcohol use. Culturally appropriate interventions that increase their awareness of and ability to respond to these sexual health risks are needed.