Situation of linkage between sexual and reproductive health and HIV-related policies in Islamic Republic of Iran – a rapid assessment in 2011–2

Abstract

The number of sexual transmission of HIV is increasing globally. Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) issues and HIV/AIDS related problems are rooted in common grounds such as poverty, gender inequality, and social exclusion. As a result, international health organizations have suggested the integration of SRH services with HIV/AIDS services as a strategy to control HIV and to improve people's access to SRH services.

An overview on sexually transmitted infections in Iran

“…85 The Ministry of health and medical education (MoHME) implements various measures for STIs prevention and control including HBV vaccination for hepatitis B prevention; prophylaxis program for occupational exposures to HBV, HCV, and HIV; syphilis and HIV screening tests in pregnant women with high risk behaviors; provision of medical prophylaxis and free formula milk for infants and children with HIV-positive mothers. [86][87] -Triangular Clinics‖ is an effective model for HIV prevention, care, and support in IDUs which provide harm reduction interventions (needle syringe programs and methadone maintenance treatment), sexually transmitted infection services, and care/support for people living with HIV/AIDS. 88 Additionally, establishment of behavioral disease counselling centers which provide services for HIV/AIDS prevention, STIs counselling and treatment, and harm reduction is another of care services in Iran.…”

“…88 Additionally, establishment of behavioral disease counselling centers which provide services for HIV/AIDS prevention, STIs counselling and treatment, and harm reduction is another of care services in Iran. 87 Despite all efforts, lack of proper integration between HIV and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) policies and programs is the main challenge of improving quality and access to HIV services in Iran. The provision of SRH services is included in HIV/ AIDS programs while HIV/AIDS control strategies are not implemented in SRH programs.…”

“…The provision of SRH services is included in HIV/ AIDS programs while HIV/AIDS control strategies are not implemented in SRH programs. 87 Weakness in gender sensitive STIs/HIV/ AIDS prevention policies forms the other challenge. 89 In terms of barriers, There is some difficulties to access people at risk for STIs and HIV (homosexuals, female sex workers, people who inject drugs, sexual minorities, homeless people, and youth) in health systems.…”

“…89 In terms of barriers, There is some difficulties to access people at risk for STIs and HIV (homosexuals, female sex workers, people who inject drugs, sexual minorities, homeless people, and youth) in health systems. 87,89 In Iran, men who have sex with men (MSM) and sex workers are punished by law. Therefore, fear of revealing their sexual identity is a great obstacle for receiving education and care.…”

“…Therefore, fear of revealing their sexual identity is a great obstacle for receiving education and care. 87 Despite young people form over one quarter of the Iranian population, they are excluded from STIs and HIV education and services due to stigma, shame or the fear of being judged, and lack of adolescent-friendly services. Amongst this group, street children and young IDUs are further excluded and marginalized.…”