Young women's views on testing for sexually transmitted infections and HIV as a risk reduction strategy in mutual and choice-restricted relationships

AimThe aim of this study was to identify relationship dynamics that influences the use of STI/HIV testing among young, urban African American women.BackgroundIncreasing STI/HIV testing is a key prevention strategy, but more research is needed to identify barriers to testing for young women such as intimate partner violence (IPV).MethodsThirty semi-structured interviews were conducted with African American women ages 18–24. Content analysis was used.ResultsWomen in choice-restricted relationships were unable to negotiate safer sex practices and testing was viewed as the best option. Women in relationships where the desire to use condoms was mutual used STI and HIV testing as a sign of trust building that preceded unprotected sex.ConclusionsSTI/HIV testing must be viewed as one strategy within a package of possible risk reduction. For those in choice-restricted relationships, clinicians should screen patients for partner abuse and provide additional support and referrals as clinically appropriate.