Contraceptive Use, Pregnancy Negotiation, and Associated Challenges among HIV-Discordant Couples in Moshi Urban, Tanzania: Mixed Method Study

Tamara H. Hussein, Better Health for African Mother and Child
Melina Mgongo, Better Health for African Mother and Child
Beatrice Kisanga, Better Health for African Mother and Child and Majengo Health Centre
Jacqueline G. Uriyo, Better Health for African Mother and Child and Oslo University Rikshospitalet
Babill Stray-Pedersen, University of Oslo
Sia Msuya, Killimanjaro Christian University College, Moshi

Background: Modern contraceptive use is one of key intervention in prevention of transmission of HIV. HIV negative partner in discordant couples have 10-100 times higher risk of getting HIV in a year. The aim of this paper is to describe contraceptive use, pregnancy negotiation and associated challenges among HIV-discordant couples in Moshi Urban. Methods: A total of 1695 pregnant women were recruited. Out of those who brought partners, there were 40 discordant couples. Proportions were used to summarize the data. Results: Dual contraceptives methods were highly used by the couples (40%), 18% used condoms alone and 7% were neither using condoms nor modern contraceptives. Discussion and recommendations: Nearly 4 out of 10 discordant couples are not using condoms for prevention of sexual transmission of HIV and 1 in ten couples is not using any preventive method. Strategies to improve 100% condom use among discordant couples are needed.