Three birth control methods are equally protective against HIV

A new study suggests that three different methods of contraception don’t pose an added risk for HIV infection, contradicting previous research that has suggested that some kinds of birth control may put women at risk of contracting the disease. More than 7,800 women in four African countries were recruited as part of a trial, and roughly 2,600 women had to use one of three different types of birth control: an injection, a copper IUD, or a hormonal implant. At the end of the trial period, there were similar numbers of women who contracted HIV with the three contraceptive methods and any differences were nonsignificant. Still, HIV incidence — roughly 4% — was high in the group, the study found, which indicates the continued need for HIV prevention services even among those who use contraceptives.