Condom Use Among People Living with HIV/AIDS Attending General Hospital, Abejukolo in Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

Condom programming is an integral component in a range of HIV/AIDS prevention strategies and with repeated sexual contact among HIV discordant couples, 98-100% percent of those who used latex condoms correctly and consistently did not become infected. The objective of this study is to determine condom use among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA).

This is a cross-sectional survey that was carried out among PLWHA who have been enrolled into care and treatment at General Hospital Abejukolo in Kogi State, Nigeria. The data instrument used was self/interviewer administered questionnaire. The data obtained were analysed using EPI-INFO version 3.4.1 software package of the computer. Chi-square was the test statistics used and p-value < 0.05 was significant for the study.

About three-quarters (70.6%) of the respondents had ever used condom. Reasons given by respondents who did not use condom were desire for children, reduces sexual pleasure and partner preference. More than half (56.0%) of the respondents with multiple partners did not use condom. Of the total respondents, 91 (39.4%) had sero-concordant spouse and only 53 (58.2%) use condom regularly. About half 119 (51.5%) used condom in the last sexual encounter. Gender, literacy level and disclosure of HIV status to partners significantly influence condom use during sexual intercourse.

The government and other stakeholders in the management of HIV/AIDS should provide more enlightenment opportunities among PLWHA to address the gaps in condom use. Research should be encouraged and supported to address the concerns and needs of people living with HIV/AIDS.