What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to examine the relationship between oral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use and the risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV among African women.

March 12, 2026Open Access

Oral preexposure prophylaxis use and the risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections and HIV among African women: A prospective observational cohort study

Key Points

This research aims to examine the relationship between oral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use and the risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV among African women.
Prospective cohort design
Population of African women at elevated risk for HIV
Follow-up assessment over one year
Monitoring PrEP initiation and STI diagnoses
60% of participants initiated PrEP at baseline
14.6% initiated PrEP post-enrollment
No association found between PrEP use and increased STI diagnosis
Low HIV incidence reported among the population

Abstract

In this prospective cohort study among African women at elevated risk for HIV, 60% initiated PrEP at baseline and 14.6% (38/261) post-enrollment. PrEP use was not associated with increased risk for STI diagnosis through one year of follow-up. HIV incidence was low overall, consistent with expanded PrEP availability in similar populations.

Oral preexposure prophylaxis use and the risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections and HIV among African women: A prospective observational cohort study

Key Points

Abstract

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