<b>Pre-exposure prophylaxis implementation determinants and strategies for uptake and utilization during periconception period among women in sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review protocol</b>

Background: HIV-negative women attempting conception with partners living with HIV or of unknown status are at increased risk of HIV acquisition. Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective, its uptake and integration into periconception care remain limited in sub-Saharan Africa.Objective: To map evidence on barriers, facilitators and implementation strategies influencing PrEP uptake and adherence among HIV-negative women during the periconception period in sub-Saharan Africa.Methods: This scoping review will follow Arksey and O’Malley and Joanna Briggs Institute guidance and will be reported according to PRISMA-ScR. Published and grey literature from 2010 onwards will be searched. Two reviewers will independently screen studies and extract data. Findings will be summarized descriptively and thematically using the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) frameworks.Conclusion: The review will identify implementation strategies and determinants, service-delivery models and recommendations to inform PrEP programs and safer conception services in sub-Saharan Africa.