Sexual Activity, Contraceptive Choice, and Sexual and Reproductive Health Indicators Among Single Canadian Women Aged 15-29: Additional Findings from the Canadian Contraception Study
William A. Fisher, University of Western Ontario and Richard Boroditsky, University of Manitoba.

This paper reports on sexual activity, contraceptive choice, and sexual and reproductive health indicators among single Canadian women, aged 15-17, 18-24, and 25-29 who participated in the 1998 Canadian Contraception Study, and provides a more detailed description of these parameters than was available in the initial report of this research. Sexual experience was common in the 15-17 year old cohort of unmarried women and exceeded 80%-90% in the older age cohorts. Most sexually experienced single women were currently sexually active and over half of them had two or more partners in the previous two years. Contraceptive use at first and last intercourse with current partner was common (about 80% in both cases) whereas consistency of contraceptive use across the last 6 months was reported less often (60% to 82% always used contraception). Condom use was high at first intercourse with current partner, less so at last intercourse, and discouragingly inconsistent over the preceding six-month time period. Sexual health concerns (such as coital pain and inhibited sexual desire) and insufficient attention to reproductive health issues (such as annual Pap smears and monthly breast self-examination) were also characteristic of this sample. The results are discussed in comparison with other Canadian research and in relation to the development of effective health education programs, public health policies, and clinical management Strategies for the promotion of sexual and reproductive health among younger single women in Canada. (The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, 2000; 9: 79-93)

Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Different Populations: A Review of Behaviourally Effective and Cost-Effective Interventions
Alexander McKay, Sex Information and Education Council of Canada (SIECCAN).

This paper reviews literature supporting the development and implementation of effective HIV/STI interventions for different populations. Evaluation research indicating favourable behavioural outcomes for HIV/STI prevention interventions with adolescents, street youth, STI clinic patients, women, heterosexually active men, men who have sex with men, and communities is summarized. Research suggesting that HIV/STI prevention interventions can be cost-effective or result in cost-savings is also described. Based on the interventions reviewed, some common characteristics of behaviourally effective HIV/STI interventions are identified and discussed. These include: use of theoretical models; incorporation of behavioural skills training; emphasis on promoting condom use; helping clients create a personal sexual health plan; use of community/culturally appropriate strategies; use of peer educators and community opinion leaders; and appropriate intervention duration. (The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, 2000; 9: 95-120).