GNP+ is collaborating with the Centre for Health Policy at the University of the Witwatersrand and the Human Sciences Research Council to conduct research with HIV Discordant Couples. The exploratory study assesses the sexual health, reproductive desires, strategies for preventing HIV transmission to the negative partner, and sexual and reproductive health service needs of HIV discordant couples in long-term relationships. The purpose of the study is to inform GNP+’s positive living, HIV prevention and advocacy programmes for people living with HIV.

The research focuses on discordant couples because many HIV infections occur between couples in established relationships, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, and there has been inadequate attention paid to the needs of couples living in discordant relationships. Most interventions for HIV prevention, treatment, care and support are directed at individuals and there are few interventions for couples.

The interviews were conducted in 2008 in South Africa and Tanzania, where HIV is transmitted mostly through heterosexual intercourse, and in the Ukraine, where HIV is transmitted largely through injection drug use. The researchers recruited 51 couples, in which one partner was HIV-positive and the other HIV-negative, and who had been in a relationship for at least one year. The couples were recruited through health-care providers and civil society organisations in South Africa (26 couples), Tanzania (10 couples), and the Ukraine (15 couples).

The needs of HIV discordant couples have received insufficient attention in the research and policy agenda. Discordant couples should be provided with sexual and reproductive health services in a supportive and non-discriminatory environment; and should be engaged in the HIV response.