In New York City, over 90% of women newly diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are Black and Latina; a quarter of these infections occur among 30-39 year-olds. A survey was administered to 343 Black and Puerto Rican women (2014-2016) to examine two HIV infection risk factors: relationship exclusivity and having experienced childhood sexual abuse (CSA). A majority of male partners (69.7%) had at least one risk for HIV transmission. Women in non-exclusive sexual relationships (nESRs) had higher-risk partners, but engaged in safer sex practices than those in ESRs. Two-thirds of women in ESRs (64.8%) reported unprotected vaginal intercourse, although 33.5% had partners with a history of concurrent relationships. Among women in nESRs, having experienced CSA was a strong risk factor for HIV infection. Black and Latina women's vulnerability to HIV infection is significant, even when in exclusive relationships. Safer sex counseling should be integrated in primary care.
Keywords: Racial/ethnic minority health; Safer sex practices; Sexual and reproductive health; Sexual risk behaviors.