HIV serostatus disclosure to sexual partners among HIV-positive methamphetamine-using gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men

AIDS Educ Prev. 2008 Feb;20(1):15-29. doi: 10.1521/aeap.2008.20.1.15.

Abstract

Nineteen semistructured interviews with HIV-positive methamphetamine-using gay, bisexual, or other MSM were analyzed qualitatively and using Critical Incident Measure (CIM). Among those who reported successful disclosure, themes regarding disclosure strategies and precontact disclosure emerged. Although few men spontaneously discussed the association between methamphetamine and disclosure, those who did reported less inclination to ascertain partner serostatus while under the influence. Men who reported disclosure to an HIV-seroconcordant partner were more likely to report not exchanging semen in this encounter compared with nondisclosers, whereas condom nonuse emerged as a theme across disclosure groups. Most of those who reported nondisclosure described their most recent encounter under the influence as occurring in the context of a public sex environment and/or with multiple partners. Understanding the interaction between methamphetamine use and serostatus disclosure practices, particularly among HIV-positive men, and how this interaction impacts sexual risk-taking has important implications for HIV prevention work.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / adverse effects
  • Choice Behavior
  • Condoms
  • HIV Seropositivity / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Methamphetamine / adverse effects
  • Middle Aged
  • New York City
  • Risk-Taking
  • Self Disclosure*
  • Sexual Partners / psychology*
  • Sexuality / psychology*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology*

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Methamphetamine