A Pilot Randomized Control Trial to Prevent HIV/STIs in Hispanic Young Heterosexual Couples

We adapted and piloted an intervention designed to increase condom use among young Hispanic heterosexual couples. Sixty-nine couples were recruited and randomly assigned to either an intervention group ( n = 35) or a waiting-list control group ( n = 34). Data on condom use and social support for safe sex were collected at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up. Although the intervention group had a retention rate of 53%, 86% of all participants completed the 3-month follow-up assessment. Linear mixed-effects models revealed a significant increase in condom use during vaginal and anal sex among the intervention group compared to the control group. The intervention also resulted in increased social support for safe sex practices. These findings suggest that this adapted intervention holds potential for improving sexual health behaviors in this understudied population.