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Abstract
You can even possibly have a child: Reproduction in the lives of HIV positive women
D B Barnes
California State University, Hayward, Hayward, United States
Background
Given the use of antiretroviral therapy, women with HIV can live longer, and reduce the risk of vertical transmission to their children. This has the potential to increase HIV positive women’s reproductive lives. An understanding of what influences women’s reproductive decisions is paramount to constructing and implementing effective HIV/AIDS educational programs, medical care, and social services. In this study we investigated how HIV positive women made reproductive choices and what influenced their actions, and who, if anyone, may have assisted them in their reproductive choices.
Methods
Face-to-face interviews were conducted with HIV positive women (n=80), aged 18 to 49 years, from Oakland, California (n=30), Chicago, Illinois (n=20), and Rochester, New York (n=30). The women were predominately African American, with an annual income of less than $10,000. Data were collected between 1995 and 2000 audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed utilizing grounded theory qualitative methods.
Results
HIV positive women’s reproduction is influenced by perceptions of self-identity of mothering as a valued role, and as a way of affirming their commitment to living. This occurs within a context of potential stigmatization of HIV positive women having children. Reproductive decisions are further influenced by their reproductive biographies, and particularly for drug recovering women, the perceived replacement of children "taken away" by Child Protective Agencies, and "doing it [mothering] right this time".Additionally, women’s relationship with God, cultural expectations and perceived risk of HIV transmission influenced women’s reproductive actions.
Conclusions
These findings suggest providers, in addition to providing knowledge of HIV transmission and available antiretroviral therapy, be cognizant of women’s levels of self-worth, reproductive biographies and cultural beliefs, and what effect these may have on their reproductive choices.
The XIV International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
MoOrE1067
Suggested Citation
" D B Barnes ,
You can even possibly have a child: Reproduction in the lives of HIV positive women
.
Oral Abstract:
The XIV International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
MoOrE1067"
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