Integration of family planning services into HIV care and treatment in Kenya

Abstract

Integration of family planning services into HIV care clinics increased use of more effective contraceptive methods with a non-significant reduction in condom use. Although no significant reduction in pregnancy incidence was observed during the study, 1 year may be too short a period of observation for this outcome.

HIV-Positive Men's Experiences with Integrated Family Planning and HIV Services in Western Kenya: Integration Fosters Male Involvement

“…Though reported infrequently in our qualitative study, dual method use did increase over time at integrated and control sites in the CRT. 16 Engaging men in FP at HIV clinics is an opportunity to help improve dual method use. Effective messaging techniques to promote dual method use need to be studied and tested further in high HIV prevalent communities to reduce HIV transmission.…”

“…can be found in the primary outcomes publication. 16 All sites provided comprehensive HIV care and treatment including the provision of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and condoms for HIV prevention. These sites were supported by Family AIDS Care and Education Services (FACES), a collaboration between the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and the Kenyan Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).…”

“…It was part of endline data collection for the CRT evaluating the impact of integrating FP/HIV services on contraceptive prevalence. 16 Participants were recruited from 18 public sector HIV treatment clinics from four districts in Nyanza Province, Kenya, including Kisumu East, Nyatike, Rongo, and Suba. Within Kenya, Nyanza Province tends to have the highest levels of poverty and HIV prevalence.…”

“…23,24 Most recently, the first cluster-randomized trial (CRT) of integrating FP into routine HIV care services, conducted in western Kenya, demonstrated an increase in more effective contraception use, from 17% at baseline to 37% one year after integration in the intervention arm. 16 The trial also found the intervention to be cost-effective. 25 Traditionally, FP programs have been directed towards women.…”

“…15 Yet, among this same population, only 19% of the women reported the use of more effective contraception (defined as hormonal methods, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and permanent methods). 16 Two systematic reviews have now demonstrated that integrating FP and HIV services is feasible and has varying degrees of positive health outcomes. 17,18 Studies of FP/HIV integration demonstrate acceptability to both patients and providers.…”