Table 1

Uthando Lwethu intervention content

SessionContent
Group session 1A mixed gender half-day session with approximately 15–20 couples. Information provision on TB, HIV, contraception and alcohol. This was designed as a baseline session for all couples before randomisation, and was not not part of the intervention content. Couples were randomised to the intervention or control group at the end of this session.
Group session 2A single gender half-day session including discussions about relationship dynamics, HIV treatment, gender norms and practical skills sessions on using condoms and learning communication techniques.
Couples counselling session 1A 90–120 min counselling session including discussion of relationship expectations, communication skills and goal-setting.
Couples counselling session 2A 90–120 min counselling session to develop communication skills, discuss barriers to achieving their goals and engage in problem-solving, and enhance positive relationship dynamics and intimacy using activities to help focus on what they like about their relationship and their partner.
Couples counselling session 3A 90–120 min counselling session to continue building communication and problem-solving skills.
Couples counselling session 4A 90–120 min counselling session to discuss maintenance of any behaviour changes, goal-setting for the future and identify possible challenges they might encounter that could impact their relationship.
  • TB, tuberculosis.