Population Council Research that makes a difference

Male and female condoms are the only methods known to provide dual protection against unintended pregnancy and HIV and some sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For sexually active individuals, correct and consistent condom use is an important means for reducing the risk of HIV infection and other STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. While there is good evidence that the female condom is effective in pregnancy prevention and some evidence that it is effective against STI transmission, it is still unclear whether it is as effective as the male latex condom.

Council researchers in Brazil conducted a study to examine the validity of the use of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) as a sensitive biomarker for semen exposure during sexual intercourse. Specifically, this study:

1. Assessed the accuracy of PSA detection after intravaginal exposure to known amounts of semen, comparing self-collected samples and samples taken by a trained nurse.
2. Assessed the reliability of self-sampling for PSA detection, comparing the results with samples taken by a trained nurse, after intercourse using a male or female condom.
3. Assessed the accuracy of PSA detection after intravaginal exposure to known amounts of semen, comparing self-collected samples and samples taken by a trained nurse.
4. Assessed the reliability of self-sampling for PSA detection, comparing the results with samples taken by a trained nurse, after intercourse using a male or female condom.