Media Watch

Injectable contraceptives increase HIV risk

Women using injectable contraceptives are at a higher risk of HIV infection and transmission than those who use other non barrier contraceptive methods.

This is according to a new study published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases Journal. About 3790 serodiscordant heterosexual couples from 7 African countries were involved in the study which was conducted from 2007 to 2009.

Since the study targeted those in relationships it took into consideration that many of these women were not using barrier methods such as condoms for protection from HIV and other STIs and relied solely on oral or injectable contraceptives as a form of protection against pregnancy alone.