Sexual Exposure to Blood and Increased Risks for Heterosexual HIV Transmission in Cape Town; South Africa

ABSTRACT

A total of 224 men and 276 women living in a Black township in Cape Town; South Africa; were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Information was elicited on demographic characteristics and sexual behaviours over the three months preceding the interview including engaging in sexual contact that involved blood; lifetime history of STI diagnoses and STI symptoms; and HIV prevention knowledge. Thirty six per cent of the men and 28 of women experienced sexual contact involving blood in the past three months. Sexual blood contact was associated with the number of sex partners; unprotected intercourse and sexually transmitted infections. Sexual exposure to blood is prevalent and may be a facilitating factor for HIV transmission in South Africa. Modern medical care providers as well as traditional healers should be encouraged to advise their clients to refrain from sexual intercourse during menstruation and other types of genital bleeding