Behavioural research examining contraceptive practices and fertility intentions of women living with HIV

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study examines whether an HIV positive status will influence fertility decision-makingand contraceptive practices of women in living with HIV (WLHIV) or if improvedantiretroviral therapy (ART) and regular HIV care can also make a contribution to theirchoices.The study was qualitative and it utilized a document analysis, a focus group discussion andinterviews held in Khayelitsha, South Africa. A total of 30 women living with HIV agedbetween 18-45 years formed part of the study. Additional interviews were conducted with thehealth care worker and the Support Group Coordinator. Data was analysed through theidentification of emerging themes and grouping of similar data.The responses given by the participants provided an understanding of the thought processesaround contraceptive use and fertility decision-making for WLHIV. Evidently, contraceptivepractices and fertility intention change over time (due to knowledge change of plans, partneror family opposition, side effects, or changes to their economic or educational situationamong other reasons).Although the study population (n=30) was too small to make definite conclusions, thefindings seem to tell of a transition towards the realisation of the rights of WLHIV. In spite ofthe many challenges that are faced by WLHIV, there seems to be a fairly conduciveenvironment (both in terms of policy and resources) to enable WLHIV to fulfil their fertilityintentions. However, there is need for programme planners to enhance ways of putting policyinto practice. Finally, it would be useful to invest further into research to obtain a broader listof WLHIV's experiences, their rationale for making certain decisions regarding theirreproductive health choices and the level of importance assigned to each reason. This wasbeyond the scope of this study.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University