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Background: Approximately 68% of MSM in the U.S. acquire HIV from their main sex partners while in a relationship (i.e., male couples). New biomedical and social HIV prevention techniques have emerged, yet data on whether partnered MSM are aware of, have used, and/or would use these techniques is limited. Little data exists on whether male couples are aware of, have used, and/or would use Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). Further, little data exists on whether this population would use couples testing or a sexual health communications program.
Objectives: To describe the knowledge of, and past use of PEP and/or PrEP among male couples; 2) summarize attitudes toward new social and biomedical HIV prevention techniques; and 3) discuss implications for using these new HIV prevention techniques for this at-risk population.
Methods: Dyadic data from 361 male couples (722 MSM) were collected nationally and anonymously through the Internet from July to September 2011. Both men in the couple were asked to complete the electronic questionnaire independently.
Results: Among the sample, 32% and 25% have heard of PEP and PrEP, respectively; 1% have used PEP and/or PrEP. Participants were ‘very likely’ for: taking PEP in the future; using couples-based testing; using a sexual health communications program; and/or using a rapid HIV test at home. Participants were ‘somewhat likely’ for: taking PrEP in the future; using a new type of condom; and/or using an enema that contained an HIV prevention medication.
Conclusions: Participants’ knowledge of, and use of, PEP and PrEP were low. Most participants’ attitudes were positive toward these new prevention techniques. Additional data are needed.
Implications for Programs, Policy, and Research: Educating and providing an array of alternative HIV prevention techniques to male couples may be necessary for reducing the number of new HIV cases among MSM in the U.S.