This 3-arm cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) will compare (1) a comprehensive family planning (FP) program that incorporates a structured, multi-component safer conception counseling (SCC) intervention (SCC1) versus (2) a SCC training workshop for FP nurses (SCC2; less intensive and mimics approach used by Ugandan Ministry of Health (MoH) to integrate new services), and (3) existing FP services (usual care) at 9 HIV clinics (3 per arm) operated by The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) Uganda.
Family planning (FP) services for people living HIV/AIDS (PLHA) focus on preventing unplanned pregnancies and mother-to-child-transmission (PMTCT), and currently provide no services to support safer conception, despite \~40% of HIV+ women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) becoming pregnant post HIV diagnosis. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) greatly reduces the transmission risks associated with childbearing, but many PLHA are either not on ART or not adequately adherent; hence the need for using safer conception methods (SCM) such as manual self-insemination and timed unprotected intercourse. This cluster RCT will compare (1) a comprehensive FP program that incorporates a structured, multi-component SCC intervention (SCC1) versus (2) an SCC training workshop for FP nurses (SCC2; mimics approach used by Ugandan MoH to integrate new services), and (3) existing FP services (usual care) at 6 HIV clinics operated by TASO Uganda. The 3-arm design, together with the planned cost-effectiveness analysis, allows us to examine two models for integrating SCC into FP services that differ on level of intensity, thereby informing MoH policy and resource allocation. Sixty clients in HIV serodiscordant relationships who express childbearing desires at recruitment will be enrolled at each site (n=360) and followed for 12 months or completion of pregnancy (if applicable). The primary outcome is use of either SCM (for those trying to conceive) or dual contraception (those who decide against pregnancy).
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
389
Multi-component counseling to help HIV-affected couples to make an informed decision about childbearing, and to provide counseling to use contraception or safer conception methods, depending on whether the couples chooses to seek or prevent pregnancy after initial consultation.
TASO
Mbale, Entebbe, Jinja, Masaka, Mbarara, Runkangiri, Uganda
Number of Participants Who Used Dual Contraception or Safer Conception Method
Number of participants who used either of these methods based on the choice of the client to seek childbearing or pregnancy prevention following intervention
Time frame: Month 12
Number Who Achieved Desired Pregnancy Status
Number who achieved desired pregnancy status depending on what client chooses after safer conception consultation
Time frame: Month 12
Partner HIV Status
Partner HIV status as determined by HIV antibody test conducted by study
Time frame: study end point (Month 12 or when learning of pregnancy)
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