P-43 Contraceptive practices of women living with HIV in Guyana

Methods: A survey was conducted among 196 women living with HIV (WLHIV) aged 16 to 49 years, who were conveniently sampled from two care and treatment sites during September and October 2024. Two focus groups were subsequently conducted with a purposively selected group of women who use contraceptives and those who do not use contraceptives from the survey participants. Quantitative data analysis was performed using the SPSS (version 21) through descriptive statistics. Chi-square test was used to identify factors associated with contraceptive use, considering significant any p-value < 0.05. Transcripts from the focus groups were thematically analysed.

Results: Fifty-two percent (52%) of the participants were using contraceptives. The most used methods were the male condom (44%) and the hormonal implant (24%). Among non-users, fear of side effects and lack of information were the commonly cited reasons. The factors significantly associated with contraceptive use were, having three or more children and receiving family planning counselling from a health care provider at the HIV care clinic. During the focus group discussions, fear of side effects was a concern among women who were using contraceptives and those who were not. Lack of financial support, concerns about transmitting HIV to a baby and receiving family planning information were motivations to use contraceptives while perceived judgemental attitudes of health care workers were cited as a barrier among non- users.

Conclusion: Fifty-two percent (52%) of the participants were using a method of contraception. There is a need for greater integration of family planning and HIV care services since contraceptive use is one strategy to reduce vertical transmission of HIV.