Enhanced HIV Prevention in Couples: Feasibility Study #1

Studies to date indicate that HIV negative partners within HIV-discordant couples (where one partner is HIV+ and the other is HIV-) are at substantial risk of acquiring HIV infection and that such transmission may play animportant role in heterosexual transmission of HIV in countries with high seroprevalence in sub-Saharan Africa. The purpose of this study is to conduct preparatory research needed to design and implement an HIV-prevention intervention trial aimed at decreasing the risk for HIV infection among HIV-discordant couples in Lesotho. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methods, the study aims to: * Establish baseline characteristics of the proposed study population, specifically pregnant and recently postpartum women and of men in Lesotho * Explore the types of sexual and social relationships that exist between men and women in Lesotho * Assess individual knowledge, understanding and perceptions around different HIV prevention strategies, including HIV testing and treatment, couples counseling and male circumcision * Identify interpersonal and individual-level barriers to accessing these types of HIV prevention interventions. There will be three study components including 1) quantitative survey 2) focus group discussions; and 3) in-depth individual interviews. A quantitative cross-sectional survey will be administered to 200 pregnant and recently postpartum women. Qualitative components will be based on open-ended iterative inquiry via focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with two groups: (1) pregnant and recently postpartum women; and (2) men. Data gathered during this study will inform the study design and intervention components of the proposed prevention intervention study.