Attitudes, Beliefs, and Barriers to PrEP Among Trans Men

AIDS Educ Prev. 2017 Aug;29(4):302-314. doi: 10.1521/aeap.2017.29.4.302.

Abstract

The study examined the attitudes and knowledge of transgender men (trans men) regarding pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV. Three focus groups of trans men were conducted with a trans male facilitator for a total of 21 participants. Six themes were identified; the range of information about PrEP and possible side effects, the economic realities for trans men, finding a trans-competent provider, trans male sexuality, the importance of contraception, and condom use. Despite identified risk and some information that has been disseminated, many trans men still lack adequate information regarding PrEP. There exist significant barriers to PrEP access for trans men. Participants commented that many providers avoid important discussions regarding sexuality and contraception. The education of health care professionals must include competency in working with transgender populations. More research is needed with regard to interactions between PrEP, testosterone, and hormonal contraception.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-HIV Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data
  • Focus Groups
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Health Personnel
  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology*
  • Homosexuality, Male / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / psychology*
  • Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
  • Qualitative Research
  • Safe Sex*
  • San Francisco
  • Sexual Partners / psychology
  • Sexuality / psychology*
  • Transgender Persons / psychology*

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents