Changes in Reproductive-Related Behavior in the U.S. Population in the HIV Era: Data from National Surveys 1982-2000

John E. Anderson, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
John S. Santelli, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Constance Mugalla, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

This paper analyze trends in HIV-related behaviors using nationally-representative health surveys and data systems: the HIV/AIDS Reporting System, the National Health Interview Survey, the National Survey of Family Growth, the General Social Survey, the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, and the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System. The HIV epidemic has shifted to show more impact on women, persons infected heterosexually, and racial/ethnic minorities. Condom use has increased, but only 36% of at-risk persons reported using condoms with their main partners. Use of condoms in combination with other effective methods was reported by about 3% of reproductive age women, and was more frequent among those with HIV risk. HIV testing increased, particularly among the at-risk. Considerable progress was made toward achieving the objective that all pregnant women be tested for prevention of perinatal HIV transmission. This trend was associated with a marked decrease in the number of cases of perinatally acquired HIV.