Serostatus of Primary Partner Impacts Sexual Behavior Inside and Outside the Relationship

Abstract

Abstract The present study combines qualitative and quantitative data to describe sexual risk-taking behavior among HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) who are in established primary relationships. Individual characteristics and beliefs, and relationship dynamics associated with having an HIV-positive primary partner (e.g., seroconcordant) versus an HIV-negative/unknown primary partner (e.g., discordant) are also discussed. Data are from the Seropositive Urban Men's Study (SUMS), where sexually active HIV-positive MSM participated in a semi-structured interview and a self-administered survey. Comparisons were made between men with HIV-positive primary partners (seroconcordant) and men with HIV-negative/unknown primary partners (serodiscordant). Unprotected anal sex with a primary partner was reported significantly more among men with seroconcordant primary partners than men with serodiscordant primary partners although there is considerable risk among both groups. Men with seroconcordant primary partners were significantly more likely than men with serodiscordant primary partners to have sex outside their relationships; however, there is no evidence to suggest they engaged in more risk. Psychosocial variables suggest men in seroconcordant and serodiscordant relationships have similar relationship and emotional characteristics. Efforts to develop messages that address the unique prevention needs of men in relationships are needed.