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AIDS and Behavior
Published in: AIDS and Behavior 1/2009

01-06-2009 | Original Paper

A Qualitative Assessment of Decisions Affecting Contraceptive Utilization and Fertility Intentions among HIV-Positive Women in Soweto, South Africa

Authors: Fatima Laher, Catherine S. Todd, Mark A. Stibich, Rebecca Phofa, Xoliswa Behane, Lerato Mohapi, Glenda Gray

Published in: AIDS and Behavior | Special Issue 1/2009

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Abstract

The HIV epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa disproportionately affects women of reproductive age. The increasing provision of Highly Active Anti-Retroviral Therapy (HAART) with improved prognosis and maternal-fetal outcomes calls for an understanding of fertility planning for HIV-positive women. We describe the effect of HIV and HAART on pregnancy desires and contraceptive use among HIV-positive women in Soweto, South Africa. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted with 42 HIV-positive women of reproductive age. Analysis was performed using ATLAS-ti (ATLAS-ti Center, Berlin). Emergent themes were impact of HIV diagnosis on pregnancy intentions; factors affecting contraceptive uptake including real and normative side effects, body image, and perceived vaginal wetness; and the mitigating influence of partnership on both pregnancy intentions and contraceptive use. Routine counseling about pregnancy desires and contraception should be offered to HIV-positive women.
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Metadata
Title
A Qualitative Assessment of Decisions Affecting Contraceptive Utilization and Fertility Intentions among HIV-Positive Women in Soweto, South Africa
Authors
Fatima Laher
Catherine S. Todd
Mark A. Stibich
Rebecca Phofa
Xoliswa Behane
Lerato Mohapi
Glenda Gray
Publication date
01-06-2009
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
AIDS and Behavior / Issue Special Issue 1/2009
Print ISSN: 1090-7165
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3254
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-009-9544-z

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