Health care experiences of HIV-infected women with fertility desires in Mexico: a qualitative study

J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care. 2014 May-Jun;25(3):224-32. doi: 10.1016/j.jana.2013.04.006. Epub 2013 Sep 16.

Abstract

Increased access to antiretroviral therapy has enabled Mexican HIV-infected women to resume healthy sexual and reproductive lives and reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV infection. However, little information is available on the experiences of HIV-infected women desiring children. In this qualitative study, we conducted in-depth interviews with 31 HIV-infected women in four Mexican cities. The findings indicated that most of the women were given limited information on their pregnancy options. With some exceptions, the women felt they were denied the option to have (or to have more) children and advised to undergo tubal ligations or abortions. The findings of this study indicate that ongoing efforts are needed to promote the reproductive rights of HIV-infected women in Mexico and to ensure that they receive options aligned with their fertility desires.

Keywords: HIV-infected women; Mexico; fertility desires; health care providers.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Decision Making
  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Female
  • Fertility*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • HIV Infections / transmission
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Health Services Accessibility
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Humans
  • Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical / prevention & control*
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Mexico
  • Motivation
  • Pregnancy
  • Qualitative Research
  • Reproductive Rights
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents