How effective are measures such as ABC (Abstinence, Be faithful, Condoms) in protecting women against HIV?
Behavioral approaches such as “ABC” are particularly difficult for women because in many societies men dictate sexual behavior. Moreover, it is often the behavior of men, and not that of women that heightens their risk of infection. Abstaining from sex is not an option for many women, particularly in situations of forced or coerced sex. Being faithful is only effective if adopted by both partners, and recent trends show that men are increasingly infecting their wives and female partners who are monogamous. The decision to use or not use condoms is usually made by men.
