HIV prevention barriers in transgender women: a qualitative study*

Abstract

Sexual contact is still one of the most important routes of HIV transmission. The aim of this study was identify the factors that underlie the higher prevalence of high-risk sexual behaviors in a sample of transgender women in Iran. The qualitative study used face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews in a sample of 15 transgender women. Our participants used sexual practices as a way to be approved/accepted as a woman. Using sex for this purpose led them to engage in high-risk sexual relationships. It is essential to consider these issues in consulting and education about high-risk behaviors.

Keywords:

• gender dysphoria
• HIV
• sexual
• qualitative
• identity

Acknowledgement

Authors thanks all participants from their contribution to the study.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.