Views of HIV-negative partners in heterosexual serodiscordant relationships regarding HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis: a qualitative study.

Background: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) may be an effective option for HIV prevention among heterosexual serodiscordant couples. However, there are knowledge gaps in social research about PrEP in heterosexual serodiscordant relationships, including motivations and barriers to its use and possible impacts of PrEP uptake on the sexual practices of these couples. The aim of this study was to explore the views of HIV-negative men and women in stable serodiscordant heterosexual relationships about the possible use of PrEP. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were used to understand participants' views on the use of PrEP. Interviews were conducted face-to-face or by telephone and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. Results: In total, 13 HIV-negative partners were interviewed; six men and seven women. Participants demonstrated a high interest in the use of PrEP for conception. PrEP was also considered an option for general HIV prevention, although men saw more benefits for this use than women. Participants' main concerns around PrEP usage were about cost, efficacy, daily adherence and side-effects. HIV-positive partner support is likely to play a central role for PrEP uptake and adherence. Conclusions: This study is one of the first studies to explore the views of HIV-negative heterosexual partners in serodiscordant relationships around the use of PrEP while trying to conceive, as well as for general HIV prevention. These study results provide new insights for the further development of guidelines governing the use of PrEP for serodiscordant couples.