HIV and marriage: factors behind HIV infection among married partners in Temeke municipality, Dar es Salaam Tanzania.

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

V111 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.