A woman reports not practicing safe sex with her partners and misusing alcohol. What is the best approach?

The best approach in this scenario is to express concern about her alcohol problem and suggest behavior change because it directly addresses both the misuse of alcohol and the implications it has on her sexual health. By expressing concern, the practitioner opens a dialogue that fosters trust and promotes a supportive environment for the woman to discuss her behaviors. Suggesting behavior change emphasizes the importance of modifying both alcohol use and sexual practices for her overall health and safety.

This approach also allows for a more collaborative discussion, where the woman can reflect on her choices and consider practical steps she might take toward safer sex and reduced alcohol consumption. It's critical in such situations to ensure that the individual feels supported rather than judged, facilitating a productive conversation about her health and lifestyle.

Other approaches, like advising her to seek therapy or recommending abstinence from alcohol, while potentially beneficial, may not engage her in the conversation as effectively and could feel more directive or prescriptive. Providing contraceptive options also does not address the root issues of alcohol misuse and its impact on her sexual health directly, making it less relevant in this context. Therefore, focusing on expressing concern and encouraging behavior change is the most holistic and effective strategy in this case.