HIV/AIDS/STDs Risk Perceptions and Protective Behavior among Family Planning (FP) Clients in Osogbo, Nigeria

Temple Jagha, Partners for Human Research, Empowerment and Development (PAHRED)
Joanne Mantell, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies
Lawrence Adeokun, Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH)
Grace E. Delano, Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH)

Despite 6% reported HIV prevalence in 120 million population, systematic HIV prevention efforts have slowly begun. 200 exit interviews were conducted with FP clients in 2 clinics in Osogbo, as part of baseline assessments prior to implementation of a dual protection intervention. 91% of respondents believed that risks of contracting HIV/STDs was high without condom use; half reported no real risk from unprotected sex with husbands. Knowledge of correct condom use was low: e.g., 50% were unaware that the penis had to be erect and 37% did not know whether a condom could be reused. Half reported ever used a condom and one-third reported condom use in the past 12 months. Age (being younger) and education (more schooling) were associated with history of condom use. Perceptions of low personal vulnerability to HIV/STDs, low knowledge about correct condom use and low condom use, indicate urgency for promotion of barrier method use.