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Abstract
In this study, the authors aimed to understand providers' role in delivering HIV transmission prevention counseling to youth living with HIV (YLWH). Fourteen in-depth interviews were conducted with providers in Kinshasa, DRC. Providers' lack of knowledge and comfort in talking to youth about sex because of cultural and religious beliefs about sexuality, coupled with confusion about legal issues related to youth and contraception, made it difficult for them to effectively counsel youth. For providers to deliver effective prevention counseling to YLWH, clinics should follow adolescent-friendly clinic standards, provide counseling in an adolescent-friendly style, and institute an effective referral system for additional prevention services. HIV prevention services can be improved through the creation of an adolescent-friendly environment and by providing “values clarification” and skill-based trainings so that providers are able to assess the role of their own beliefs and learn new skills.
