Sexual practices, attitudes, and knowledge related to HIV transmission in low income Los Angeles Hispanic women

The sexual practices, attitudes, and knowledge related to HIV transmission were investigated in low income Hispanic women in Los Angeles. Data were collected by both quantitative and qualitative methods from two independent samples, one of survey respondents (N = 508) and the other of focus group participants (N = 55). Participants were low income Hispanic women in Los Angeles who were receiving a Public Health Foundation nutrition program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). Recipients of WIC were invited to participate in an HIV-testing and counseling program. Participation was voluntary, and participants were paid. Respondents reported on sexual practices, preferences, and satisfaction; condom use; male partners' sexual activity; attitudes toward homosexuality; and knowledge of sexual transmission of HIV. They made recommendations for sexual prevention programs for Hispanics. The participants reported infrequent sexual activity, a preference for conventional and traditional sexual practices, and dissatisfaction with their sexual relationships. Male primary partners were reported to have other sexual partners, both male and female. Homosexuality was viewed negatively, and disclosure was not supported. Condom use improved with education but was related to avoiding pregnancy rather than HIV transmission. Knowledge of sexual transmission of HIV also improved with education; however, the HIV counseling program was thought to have conceptual problems. Respondents made recommendations for sexual prevention programs for various Hispanic populations based on age and gender.