Diaphragm used with replens gel and risk of bacterial vaginosis: results from a randomized controlled trial.

Background: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) has been linked to female HIV acquisition and transmission. We investigated the effect of providing a latex diaphragm with Replens and condoms compared to condom only on BV prevalence among participants enrolled in an HIV prevention trial.

Methods: We enrolled HIV-seronegative women and obtained a vaginal swab for diagnosis of BV using Nugent's criteria; women with BV (score 7-10) were compared to those with intermediate (score 4-6) and normal flora (score 0-3).

Consistent condom use in married Zimbabwean women after a condom intervention.

Objectives: Condom use to prevent HIV in Africa has increased in nonmarital sexual encounters but remains low within marriage. Married women of reproductive age, however, are at high risk of HIV.

Goal: This study investigated factors associated with consistent condom use after a brief intervention.

Predictors of diaphragm use as a potential sexually transmitted disease/HIV prevention method in Zimbabwe.

Background: Women who are the most vulnerable to sexually transmitted diseases/HIV are often unable to consistently use condoms. One potential alternative method currently under investigation is the diaphragm.

Goals: The goals of this study were to assess diaphragm uptake and use over time in Zimbabwe and to identify factors associated with self-reported consistent diaphragm use.