Feasibility and acceptability of pre-exposure prophylaxis use among women in violent relationships

ABSTRACT

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with a high risk of HIV acquisition. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which does not require partner knowledge or consent, is a promising HIV risk reduction option for women experiencing IPV. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 26 women experiencing IPV within the last six months, this study explored the feasibility and acceptability of PrEP use in this population. Slightly more than half of the women in this study expressed interest in taking PrEP when in a relationship with an abusive partner. Potential barriers to PrEP, discussed regardless of women's expressed interest in PrEP, included fear of side effects and long-term health concerns, low risk perceptions, potential partner interference, and prioritizing coping with the relationship over HIV prevention. When offering PrEP counseling, providers should inquire about IPV, as women in violent relationships may require tailored counseling to address barriers and concerns specific to their situation.

KEYWORDS:

• Pre-exposure prophylaxis
• PrEP
• women
• intimate partner violence

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the Monroe County Department of Health for their support in conducting this research, Heidi Hutchins, Theresa Senn, and the women who agreed to participate in the research, without whom this study would not have been possible.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Center for AIDS Research, University of Rochester Medical Center [grant number P30AI078498] (NIH/NIAID) and the University of Rochester School of Nursing.