Network: Family Planning and STIs

Many family planning clients need services related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This issue of Network includes an article about ways to provide dual protection, against both pregnancy and STIs. Other articles address the needs of HIV-positive women, ways to reach youth and men, and a contraceptive method table that compares each method's ability to protect against STIs.

In this issue

Many Clients Need Dual Protection

For sexually active people who need contraception and are at risk of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), there are two ways to reduce both risks: Two contraceptives can be used (one highly effective for pregnancy prevention and the male or female condom), or a condom can be used for both purposes.

HIV-positive Women Have Different Needs

In settings where HIV prevalence is high, family planning providers should discuss with clients how HIV can affect family health. Counseling HIV-positive Women offers a concise list of key points to discuss with women who are already infected. HIV-infected Women Less Fertile discusses the fertility of HIV-infected women.

Reaching Youth, Men May Improve Services

Serving more men and adolescents in family planning and maternal health programs is one way programs can help prevent the spread of STIs, including HIV.

Does Circumcision Reduce HIV Risks?

While there is some evidence to support the belief that circumcision can reduce HIV infection risks, promoting circumcision as a way to guard against infection may not be appropriate. Removing Specialized Cells May Explain Protective Effect offers a summary of research on how circumcision may reduce HIV infection risks.

Condom Offers STI Protection

Among barrier contraceptive methods, the male condom offers the best protection against STIs, including HIV. Do Contraceptives Protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections? is a chart of each contraceptive method and whether each offers protection against specific viral and bacterial infections.

N-9 Protection against HIV Doubtful

A recent study raises concerns about the ability of nonoxynol-9 (N-9) to protect against HIV. A related article reviews studies that indicate Anal Intercourse Presents Serious HIV/STI Risks.

Do Hormonals Affect STI Risks?

Largely due to study design difficulties, research is conflicting on whether hormonal methods of contraception affect the acquisition of STIs, including HIV.

Contraceptive Update: Oral Contraceptives and Breast Cancer Risks

A recent study suggests a link between high-dose combined oral contraceptives that were discontinued years ago and an increased risk of breast cancer among women with a strong family history of the disease.