Abstract:
An exploratory descriptive cross-sectional study involving 117 married partners; men
and women aged 15 years and above was carried out in Temeke Municipality, Dar es
Salaam between June and July 2004. A multi stage random sampling method was used
to identify the district for the study, wards, streets, and households. In the households,
only married consenters were interviewed. Instruments were pre-tested and necessary
adjustments made. Ethical Clearance permission was obtained from the responsible
authorities. Epi Info programme was used in analysing information obtained from the
respondents. Results are presented in percentages; tables and quotations. Discussions
and recommendations are also presented. The study sought to find out factors behind
HIV infection among married partners. The respondents had different educational
attainments, age, religious affiliation, duration in marriage as well as occupations.
Findings show that knowledge about transmission and prevention ofHIV was low. Most
of the married partners are involved in extra marital sex. Many married partners
perceived themselves to be at risk ofHIV infection. High-risk perception among married
partners was not associated with taking preventive measures against HIV infection.
About 70% of married partners said that extramarital sex was unavoidable. More than
half of the married women who had extra marital sex did not use condoms. Condom use
in extra marital sex was low. Few couples accepted faithfulness in marriage as
preventive options against HIV infection. About a half of the respondents who had extra
marital sex did not tell their marital partners so as to provide a room for discussing
condom use. Conflict among couples, dissatisfaction in sexual intercourse and
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transactional sex were some 0 f t he reasons causing couples to engage in extramarital
sex. It is concluded that marriage is not protective against HIV infection and many
factors are contributing to this. Most of the married couples are involved in extramarital
sex and therefore HIV infection is not a surprise. Low knowledge about transmission
and prevention of HIV and a serious dislike of preventive options contributes to HIV
infection. Extra marital sexual intercourse, secrecy among couples about their sexual
behaviour and unwillingness to use condoms in extra marital sex complicates the
problem. It is recommended that an HIV/AIDS programme for married couples be
initiated. Using opportunities available before marriage contracts to impart information
on HIV I AIDS and voluntary counseling and HIV testing. Addressing perceptions and
beliefs which partners have about marriage, condoms use and extra marital sexual
intercourse is necessary. Secrecy among couple about their sexual behaviour and sexual
needs require addressing by both religious leaders and secular leaders in this era of HIV
I AIDS control, treatment and care.
