HIV prevention heuristics and condom use among African-Americans at risk for HIV.

The goal of this study was to improve understanding of whether incorrect HIV/AIDS heuristics and characteristics-based risk theories are barriers to HIV prevention among young African-Americans at increased risk for HIV. We explored: (1) the beliefs of men and women regarding disease prevention strategies, and (2) the relationship of such beliefs to safer sexual behaviours. In Phase I, semistructured individual interviews were conducted with both members of 22 heterosexual couples at increased risk for HIV/STIs. Subsequently, in Phase II, structured individual interviews were conducted with another 40 women and 40 men (not couples). Participants in Phase I reported use of condoms and monogamy as major strategies for disease prevention. The beliefs that were endorsed by the largest percentage of Phase II participants were related to the 'known partners are safe partners' and 'trusted partners are safe partners' heuristics. Moreover, stronger endorsement of the 'known partners' heuristic was negatively associated with measures of condom use and pregnancy prevention behaviour. Our findings highlight the need for interventions and programmes to encourage intimate partners to consistently use condoms until both members of the dyad are tested and agree to mutual monogamy.

Emergency contraceptive pills: an exploratory study of knowledge and perceptions among Mexican women from both sides of the border.

A focus group study was conducted to explore what Mexican women from both sides of the US-Mexican border do to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, including their use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs); to examine their knowledge and perceptions of ECPs; and to explore what might influence Mexican women's use of ECPs. Eight focus groups (four in Mexico and four in California) were conducted with 55 sexually active Mexican women age 18 to 34. The women discussed a variety of postcoital methods intended to prevent pregnancy including herbs and injections. Although a third of the women had heard of ECPs, their knowledge was very limited. After being informed about the characteristics of ECPs, participants had many positive comments, preferring them to unplanned pregnancies and abortions. A major topic was whether or not ECPs are abortifacients. Having information about ECPs, a woman's personal circumstances, interpersonal factors, and the role of culture and religion were factors they thought would influence a woman's use of ECPs. After the focus group discussions, 95% of the women said they would use ECPs. Mexican women's acceptance and use of ECPs will likely depend on a host of factors within the broader context of their lives.