Effects of intimate partner violence and child abuse on HIV risk behaviors

Abstract: The impact of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and childhood trauma on 141 Portuguese women’s HIV risk behaviors (61 victims and 80 non-victims of IPV) was examined as well as differences between victims and non-victims in terms of childhood trauma, condom use, and history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A cross-sectional study design was used with retrospective self-report. Women who reported IPV also reported more instances of child physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as more STIs than those who reported no history of abuse. IPV, including psychological aggression and physical assault without injury, significantly contributed to the presence/history of STIs, while younger age contributed to condom use. This study demonstrates the impact of IPV on HIV risk behaviors and highlights the need for effective intervention programs to prevent sexual risk behaviors and promote sexual health among victimized women.