Diaphragm and Gel: No Added Protection Against HIV

HIV-acquisition rates were similar between women randomized to use a diaphragm and lubricant gel together with condoms and women randomized to use only condoms.

Condoms can reduce risk for HIV transmission, but their use requires cooperation from the male partner. Use of female condoms is limited, and microbicides tested to date have been ineffective in preventing HIV transmission. Investigators recently assessed whether use of a diaphragm together with male condoms could prevent HIV acquisition in sexually active women.

The researchers randomized 5039 HIV-uninfected women aged 18–49 in South Africa and Zimbabwe to intervention (diaphragm and lubricant gel plus condom) and control (condom only) groups. All received a comprehensive HIV-prevention package that included testing, counseling, and treatment for curable sexually transmitted infections. On follow-up visits, scheduled quarterly after the ini…

Reviewing Author

Mary E. Wilson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardOneHealthTrust (formerly Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics, and Policy); Global Health Institute, University of Wisconsin

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsJournal of Travel Medicine

Mary E. Wilson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardOneHealthTrust (formerly Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics, and Policy); Global Health Institute, University of Wisconsin

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsJournal of Travel Medicine

Diaphragm and Gel: No Added Protection Against HIV

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Reviewing Author