"Shades of risk": Understanding current PrEP users' sexually transmitted infection perceptions. Issue 3 (4th March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Klasko-Foster, Lynne; Wilson, Kennethea; Bleasdale, Jacob; Gabriel, Steven J.; Przybyla, Sarahmona
• Is Part Of: AIDS care. Volume 34:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 353
• Page End: 358
• Publication Date: 2022-03-04
• Subjects: Sexually transmitted infections -- HIV -- preexposure prophylaxis -- risk perceptions -- sexual risk behavior; AIDS (Disease) -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; AIDS (Disease) -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; AIDS (Disease) -- Patients -- Care -- Periodicals; Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; 362.1969792
• DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1957762
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0954-0121

Abstract

ABSTRACT : Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a safe and effective HIV prevention strategy. Given the possibility of increased sexual risk-taking and acquisition of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) following PrEP initiation, it is important to explore STI risk perceptions both before and after PrEP initiation to understand the extent to which these perceptions inform decisions to engage in condomless sex. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with men who have sex with men currently using PrEP ( n = 30). Prior to analysis, PrEP users were categorized into four subgroups based on condom use behavior post-PrEP initiation: (1) condom continuers (2) condomless sex continuers, (3) condomless sex increasers, and (4) condomless sex decreasers. Thematic analysis revealed two major themes that elucidated differences in (1) the appraisal of HIV risk relative to other STIs and (2) the importance of partner communication in determining STI risk perceptions by subgroup. Most PrEP users demonstrated no behavioral change after PrEP initiation. Those engaging in condomless sex prior to PrEP initiation also continued that behavior while taking PrEP. Results of this study support a tailored approach to PrEP counseling based on individual STI risk appraisal and motivations to initiate and continue PrEP.