Haitian women are twice as likely as men to have HIV/AIDs. Factors underlying the feminization of HIV are complex. Self-esteem is an important correlate of sexual behavior. However, its meaning and impact on health behaviors may be influenced by cultural factors. This qualitative study took place in Haiti 4 months after the 2010 earthquake and examines the meaning of self-esteem among young Haitian women seeking treatment for a recurrent sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Background:
Despite the importance of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission through heterosexual contact, the incidence of HIV infection in heterosexual cohorts has not been well studied, particularly in the developing world.

Objective:
To 1) determine the incidence of HIV infection in discordant heterosexual couples [couples in which one partner had HIV infection and the other did not] in Haiti and 2) assess risk factors for and methods of preventing HIV infection.

Design:
Prospective study.