Yale University

Strategies for managing the dual risk of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy among puerto rican and african american young adults.

TitleStrategies for managing the dual risk of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy among puerto rican and african american young adults.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2012
AuthorsCarter, Marion W., Linda Hock-Long, Joan Marie Kraft, Dare Henry-Moss, Kendra Hatfield-Timajchy, and Merrill Singer
JournalAmerican journal of public health
Volume102
Issue3
Pagination449-56
Date Published2012 Mar
ISSN1541-0048
AbstractAlthough young adults in the United States are at increased risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy, they do not report high rates of dual-method use (condoms plus other contraception) for prevention. We used prospective qualitative data from 69 urban Puerto Rican and African American individuals aged 18 to 25 years to determine how they managed these risks in their heterosexual relationships during a 4- to 8-week period. Hormonal or long-acting contraceptive use, condoms, and withdrawal were the most common unintended pregnancy prevention strategies; condoms, STI testing, and perceived fidelity were dominant among STI prevention strategies. We need to shift the focus from dual-method use toward a broader concept of dual protection to be more responsive to young adults' concerns, perceptions, and priorities.
DOI10.1080/13648470.2011.615908
Alternate JournalAm J Public Health

External Links