Demographic, behavioral, and knowledge factors associated with herpes simplex virus type 2 infection among men whose current female partner has genital herpes
Rana, R.K.; Pimenta, J.M.; Rosenberg, D.M.; Tyring, S.K.; Paavonen, J.; Cook, S.F.; Robinson, N.J.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases 32(5): 308-313
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0148-5717 PMID: 15849532 DOI: 10.1097/01.olq.0000162363.82005.feDocument Number: 253462
Objective/Goal. The objective of this study was to evaluate risk factors for herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection among men whose female partners have genital herpes (GH).Study: Between 1998 and 2001, 717 men in heterosexual monogamous relationships, without a history of GH, completed a cross-sectional questionnaire on demographic, behavioral, and knowledge factors for GH. Their female partners were symptomatic and HSV-2-seropositive. Risk factors for HSV-2 seropositivity were assessed using logistic regression.Results: On laboratory confirmation, 25% of the men were HSV-2-seropositive. Factors significantly (P < 0.01) associated with HSV-2 infection included: never using condoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-2.95), prior sexually transmitted disease (STD) (aOR, 1.80; CI, 1.27-2.58), vaginal intercourse during symptomatic episodes (aOR, 1.77; CI, 1.19-2.62), longer partnership (for each additional year aOR, 1.07; CI, 1.03-1.09), and lower knowledge of GH (aOR, 1.14; CI, 1.05-1.23).Conclusion: Potentially modifiable risk factors for HSV-2 infection included engaging in vaginal sex during symptomatic episodes, never using condoms, and lower knowledge of GH.