Sexual Behaviors and Perceptions of HIV Risk in a Multiethnic U.S. Sample of Women Who Have Sex with Women

Abstract

This study investigated the sexual practices and perceptions of HIV risk in a national sample women who have sex with women (WSW). A multiethnic sample of 239 WSW aged 18–68 years attending GLBTQ pride events in three U.S. cities (Chicago, Atlanta, and Fort Lauderdale) completed an anonymous survey regarding their sexual behaviors, thoughts and perceptions of HIV risk. In the past 6 months, 18% of participants reported one or more male partners. Perception of HIV risk was associated with having more male partners (r = .244, p < .01), no primary relationship (r = .185, p < .01), shorter time with primary partners (r = .191, p < .05), multiple female partners (r = .169, p < .05), and a primary relationship with a man (r = .208, p < .01). Participants reported low levels of safer sex, but those who had sex with men reported using more protection with men compared with women. Most participants believed WSW could be at risk for HIV, but felt little personal risk. Understanding behaviors and perceptions of risk while taking into account the unique contexts of the lives of WSW from diverse communities may help guide the development of relevant, targeted public health interventions that address HIV-risk in this group. For the purpose of this paper, we define lesbians as homosexual women, or women who have sexual desire and relationships with other women. WSW are women who have, or have had, sex with women who may or may not self-identify as lesbian.