Association of contraceptives and HIV-1 infection in Thai female commercial sex workers

Abstract

We conducted a case-control study to evaluate the association between contraceptive methods and HIV infection among Thai female commercial sex workers in Khon Kaen and Lumpang provinces, Thailand; 118 cases of HIV-1 infected sex workers were eligible for inclusion and 258 HIV-1 negative women were recruited as controls during the period of October 1, 1993 to December 31, 1994. Cases and controls were matched by age, education, parity, age at first exposure to commercial sex, number of clients per night, duration of work and sexual practice during menstruation. The ratio of case per control was 1:2. Both cases and controls were interviewed and underwent blood testing by a team of investigators. The study revealed no significant association between oral pill, injection, other contraceptives and HIV-1 infection. However, condom usage showed a significant protective effect. It is suggested that these contraceptives in this high-risk group of women do not increase the risk of HIV infection. In contrast, the use of condoms could reduce the risk of HIV infection.