HIV-infected Population National Data

The correct and consistent use of condoms is the most effective way for HIV-positive individuals who are sexually active to prevent the transmission of HIV infection to HIV-negative sexual partners. The use of contraceptive methods in HIV-infected populations has been little studied. Except for tubal ligation, the most effective methods of pregnancy prevention (e.g. OCs, IUD) are not widely used, even by women who do not desire children. Counseling and other interventions to help HIV-positive women prevent both HIV transmission and pregnancy may thus be of value. The strong association between condom use and attitudes suggests that for secondary prevention, clinicians and counselors should reinforce attitudes that are conducive to condom use, including beliefs that HIV transmission can occur even if an individual is on antiretroviral therapy, that the correct and consistent use of condoms is effective in reducing the risk of HIV transmission, and that HIV-positive individuals should use condoms with all sexual partners who are or could be HIV negative.