Factors that hinder Condom use Among Sexually Active Discordant Couples at TASO Masaka.

Abstract

Background Increasing the use of condoms among discordant couples is imperative to preventing further spread of HIV. However, condom resistance remains a real problem among HIV discordant couples in Uganda. Objectives The study aimed at establishing the factors that hinder condom use among sexually active discordant couples in TASO-Masaka so as to understand the underlying potential barriers for condom use within these relationships. The study focused at provide an opportunity to understand the potential barriers for condom use within these relationships so as to design appropriate HIV/AIDS prevention packages tailored to addressing this scenario. Method A Cross-sectional study design, using a structured questionnaire was used to collect data on beliefs, attitudes as well as socio-cultural factors pertaining to no and inconsistent condom use. Results Findings from the study indicated that majority of the respondents (56.82%) who always use condoms have HIV positive partners compared to 43.18% whose partners are HIV negative. More so, among the respondents who had not used condoms in their last sexual encounter, 66.67% and 81.82% of the male and female respondents respectively reported that the males were more influential on decisions making regarding condom use. However, 33.08%, 28.46% and 26.92% of the respondent concurred with the statements that relatives and friends, cultural and religious beliefs respectively affect the use of condoms among the discordant relationships. Conclusions and recommendations The study concluded with emphasis on the need for more carefully designed strategies tackling couple dynamics and empowerment of women to overcome the constraints to HIV protective behaviors among others. Also the study suggested the need to an extensive qualitative in-depth study to expound on the salient insights regarding condom use resistance.