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Misconceptions about STD-protective behavior. Project RESPECT
Study Group.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine 2000;19(3):167-173.
Crosby RA, Newman D, Kamb ML, Zenilman J, Douglas JMJr, Iatesta M.
Abstract
CONTEXT: Misconceptions about STD-protective behaviors have not been studied
before and after STD counseling. Further, to the best of our knowledge,
the relationship of these misconceptions to condom use and STD incidence
has not previously been described in published reports. OBJECTIVES: The
main purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of misconceptions
about STD prevention among STD clinic attendees (N=3498) in five large cities,
as well as whether misconceptions decreased after STD diagnosis, STD counseling,
or both. The study also identified predictors of persistent misconceptions
and determined the relationship of STD incidence and unprotected sex to
persistent misconceptions. METHODS: Data from a randomized controlled trial
evaluating HIV/STD counseling interventions (Project RESPECT) were used
for the present analyses. Participants completed an interview upon study
enrollment and every 3 months following enrollment for a 1-year period.
A portion of the interview assessed participants' misconceptions about STD-protective
behaviors. RESULTS: At baseline, 16.3% believed that washing the genitals
after sex protected from STDs. Likewise, urinating after sex (38.7%), douching
(45.7%), and use of oral contraceptives (19. 9%) were believed to prevent
STDs. Prevalence of misconceptions was significantly diminished at a 3-month
follow-up (p<.001). Those continuing to have misconceptions were more
likely to be aged > or = 24 and African American. Those continuing to
have these misconceptions did not have higher STD incidence. CONCLUSIONS:
Misconceptions about STD-protective behaviors are common, and the event
of an STD or STD counseling or both generally reduces these misconceptions.
Although these misconceptions may not directly translate into risky behavior,
they may preclude movement toward safer sex.