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Towriss CA, Phillips TK, Brittain K, Zerbe A, Abrams EJ, Myer L. The injection or the injection? Restricted contraceptive choices among women living with HIV. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2020; 27:1628593. [PMID: 31533578 PMCID: PMC6754114 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2019.1628593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, women living with HIV (WLWH) have been vulnerable to biased advice from healthcare workers regarding contraception and childbearing. However, antiretroviral therapy (ART) has made motherhood safer, prompting a re-examination of whether contraceptive services enable the realisation of WLWH’s reproductive intentions. We use longitudinal quantitative data on contraceptive choice and use, and childbearing intentions collected in (up to) six interviews between entry into antenatal care (ANC) and 18 months post-partum from a cohort of 471 ART-initiated WLWH in Cape Town, South Africa. Thirty-nine of these women were randomly selected for in-depth interview where they described experiences of contraception services and use. We find high prevalence of injectable contraceptive (IC) use after birth (74%). With increasing post-partum duration, greater proportions of women discontinue this method (at 18 months 21% were not using contraception), while desires for another child remain stable. We find little consistency between method choice and use: many women who elected to use the intrauterine device, sterilisation or oral contraceptives at first ANC visit are using IC after birth. Women commonly report receiving an IC shortly after birth, including those who had previously chosen to use another method or no method. Among WLWH, injectables dominated the contraceptive method mix. Despite a human rights-grounded policy and attempts to introduce new methods, contraceptive services in South Africa remain largely unchanged over time. Women are frequently unable to make autonomous contraceptive choices. Despite low desires for future pregnancy, we observed high rates of contraceptive discontinuation, resulting in heightened risk of unintended pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona A Towriss
- Senior Lecturer, Centre for Actuarial Research , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Tamsin K Phillips
- Research Officer, School of Public Health and Family Medicine , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Kirsty Brittain
- Research Officer, School of Public Health and Family Medicine , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Allison Zerbe
- Senior Project Manager, ICAP , Columbia University , Columbia , NY , USA
| | - Elaine J Abrams
- Professor and Senior Research Director , ICAP, Columbia University , Columbia , NY , USA
| | - Landon Myer
- Professor and Director of School , School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
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Silva CBD, Motta MDGCD, Bellenzani R. Motherhood and HIV: reproductive desire, ambivalent feelings and a/an (not) offered care. Rev Bras Enferm 2019; 72:1378-1388. [PMID: 31531665 DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2018-0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify in the scientific literature the feelings of women living with HIV in relation to reproduction and motherhood, as well as the care provided by health professionals regarding reproductive health as a right. METHOD Integrative review carried out in 2017, in the databases LILACS, PUBMED, BDENF and SciELO Virtual Library. We analyzed 30 articles. RESULTS As feelings, the motivation for reproduction and self-care, fears, uncertainties and hopes were evidenced. As care, services that support reproductive decisions were evidenced, but, predominantly, the disregard for the desire and care incipience for reproductive planning. CONCLUSION There is no comprehensive and humanized work on the reproductive issues of these women, either through the neglect of the desire and viability of gestation or by the incipient care to the ambivalent emotional experiences. There is a need to qualify the care model in order to configure it, in fact, as care, aiming at guaranteeing reproductive rights.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Renata Bellenzani
- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul. Paranaíba, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
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Sweileh WM. A bibliometric analysis of global research output on health and human rights (1900-2017). Glob Health Res Policy 2018; 3:30. [PMID: 30377667 PMCID: PMC6196451 DOI: 10.1186/s41256-018-0085-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Baseline data on global research activity on health and human rights (HHR) needs to be assessed and analyzed to identify research gaps and to prioritize funding and research agendas. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the growth of publications and research pattern on HHR. Methods A bibliometric methodology was used. Literature on HHR was retrieved using SciVerse Scopus for the study period from 1900 to 2017. Nine different search scenarios with different keyword combinations were used to retrieve the required documents. All types of documents published in peer-reviewed journals, including editorials, were included. The search strategy was validated. Results In total 6513 documents were retrieved with an h-index of 88 and an average of 9.8 citations per document. Publications on HHR field started as early as 1950 but showed a steep rise in the past two decades. Visualization of author keywords revealed that HIV/ AIDS, mental health, maternal and reproductive health, violence, ethics, torture, and refugees were most commonly encountered keywords. The journal "Health and Human Rights" was most active (n = 467; 7.2%) in this field. However, documents that appeared in The Lancet received the highest impact (29.5 citations per document). The United States of America produced the most in this field (n = 1817; 27.9%). Researchers in the region of Americas participated in approximately 45% of the retrieved documents while researchers in the Eastern Mediterranean region had the least contribution (2.5%). Researchers in high-income countries contributed to approximately 78% of the retrieved documents while researchers in low-income countries contributed to less than 5% of the retrieved documents. When data were standardized by population size, the research output from high-income countries was approximately four documents per one million inhabitants. For middle-income countries, the research output was 0.3 document per one million inhabitants. For low-income countries, the research output was 0.5 document per one million inhabitants. Conclusions Differential research productivity on HHR was seen among scholars in different world regions. World countries need to encourage and strengthen research on HHR in order to achieve the goals set in international agreements of human rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed M Sweileh
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology/Toxicology, Division of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
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Fontes Marx M, London L, Müller A. Missing knowledge of gendered power relations among non-governmental organisations doing right to health work: a case study from South Africa. BMC INTERNATIONAL HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS 2018; 18:33. [PMID: 30165841 PMCID: PMC6117970 DOI: 10.1186/s12914-018-0172-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite 20 years of democracy, South Africa still suffers from profound health inequalities. Gender roles and norms are associated with individuals’ vulnerability that lead to ill-health. For instance, gender inequality influences women’s access to health care and women’s agency to make health-related decisions. This paper explores gender-awareness and inclusivity in organisations that advocate for the right to health in South Africa, and analyses how this knowledge impacts their work? Methods In total, 10 in-depth interviews were conducted with members of The Learning Network for Health and Human Rights (LN), a network of universities and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) which is explicitly committed to advancing the right to health, but not explicitly gendered in its orientation. Results The results show that there is a discrepancy in knowledge around gender and gendered power relations between LN members. This discrepancy in understanding gendered power relations suggests that gender is ‘rendered invisible’ within the LN, which impacts the way the LN advocates for the right to health. Conclusions Even organizations that work on health rights of women might be unaware of the possibility of gender invisibility within their organisational structures. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12914-018-0172-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayara Fontes Marx
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA. .,School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Leslie London
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alex Müller
- Gender Health and Justice Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Laar A, DeBruin D. Key populations and human rights in the context of HIV services rendition in Ghana. BMC INTERNATIONAL HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS 2017; 17:20. [PMID: 28768541 PMCID: PMC5541754 DOI: 10.1186/s12914-017-0129-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background In line with its half century old penal code, Ghana currently criminalizes and penalizes behaviors of some key populations – populations deemed to be at higher risk of acquiring or transmitting Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Men who have sex with men (MSM), and sex workers (SWs) fit into this categorization. This paper provides an analysis of how enactment and implementation of rights-limiting laws not only limit rights, but also amplify risk and vulnerability to HIV in key and general populations. The paper derives from a project that assessed the ethics sensitivity of key documents guiding Ghana’s response to its HIV epidemic. Assessment was guided by leading frameworks from public health ethics, and relevant articles from the international bill of rights. Discussion Ghana’s response to her HIV epidemic does not adequately address the rights and needs of key populations. Even though the national response has achieved some public health successes, palpable efforts to address rights issues remain nascent. Ghana’s guiding documents for HIV response include no advocacy for decriminalization, depenalization or harm reduction approaches for these key populations. The impact of rights-restricting codes on the nation’s HIV epidemic is real: criminalization impedes key populations’ access to HIV prevention and treatment services. Given that they are bridging populations, whatever affects the Ghanaian key populations directly, affects the general population indirectly. Summary The right to the highest attainable standard of health, without qualification, is generally acknowledged as a fundamental human right. Unfortunately, this right currently eludes the Ghanaian SW and MSM. The paper endorses decriminalization as a means of promoting this right. In the face of opposition to decriminalization, the paper proposes specific harm reduction strategies as approaches to promote health and uplift the diminished rights of key populations. Thus the authors call on Ghana to remove impediments to public health services provision to these populations. Doing so will require political will and sufficient planning toward prioritizing HIV prevention, care and treatment programming for key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Box LG 13, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Debra DeBruin
- Center for Bioethics, University of Minnesota, 410 Church Street S.E MN, Minneapolis, 55455-0346, USA
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Ddumba-Nyanzi I, Kaawa-Mafigiri D, Johannessen H. Barriers to communication between HIV care providers (HCPs) and women living with HIV about child bearing: A qualitative study. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2016; 99:754-759. [PMID: 26680756 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2015.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2015] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In the context of HIV clinical care, open discussion regarding sexual health and reproductive plans has become increasingly relevant. The aim of this paper is to explore barriers to communication between providers and women living with HIV regarding childbearing. METHODS In-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with 48 HIV infected women receiving ART at 7 different HIV clinics providing comprehensive HIV care services in four districts in Uganda, between July and August 2012. All women were aware of their HIV diagnosis prior to pregnancy or had given birth while living with HIV. RESULTS Four themes emerged describing barriers to communication, from the HIV-positive women's point of view: (i) provider indifference or opposition to childbearing post HIV diagnosis, (ii) anticipation of negative response from provider, (iii) provider's emphasis on 'scientific' facts, (iv) 'accidental pregnancy'. CONCLUSION Existing evidence regarding effective provider-patient communication should be considered for its application for reproductive counseling among HIV infected women. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS These data demonstrate the need for current counseling guidelines to explore approaches that encourage open, non-judgmental, non-directive discussions with HIV positive individuals around their reproductive desires and intentions in a health care setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Ddumba-Nyanzi
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, Makerere University Kampala, Uganda.
| | - David Kaawa-Mafigiri
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, Makerere University Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Helle Johannessen
- Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark.
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Mindry DL, Milford C, Greener L, Greener RM, Maharaj P, Letsoalo T, Munthree C, Crankshaw TL, Smit JA. Client and provider knowledge and views on safer conception for people living with HIV (PLHIV). SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE 2016; 10:35-40. [PMID: 27938871 DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE(S) The childbearing needs of people living with HIV (PLHIV) and the experiences of healthcare providers serving them are explored. We examine provider and client knowledge and views on safer conception methods. METHODS The study uses exploratory qualitative research to understand provider and client perspectives on childbearing and safer conception. Interviews were conducted at 3 sites (1 rural, 2 urban) in eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa between May 2011 and August 2012, including in-depth interviews with 43 PLHIV, 2 focus group discussions and 12 in-depth interviews with providers. RESULTS Clients had little knowledge and providers had limited knowledge of safer conception methods. While clients were eager to receive counseling on safer conception, providers had some hesitations but were eager to receive training in delivering safer conception services. Clients and providers noted that biological parentage is a major concern of PLHIV. Clients were willing to use any of the described methods to have biological children but some expressed concerns about potential risks associated with timed unprotected intercourse. Male clients required access to reproductive health information. CONCLUSIONS Providers need to routinely initiate discussions with clients about childbearing intentions. Providers need to be enabled with approved guidelines and training to support client access to safer conception methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah L Mindry
- Center for Culture and Health, Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Cecilia Milford
- MatCH Research (Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health), Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Letitia Greener
- MatCH Research (Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health), Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ross M Greener
- MatCH Research (Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health), Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Pranitha Maharaj
- School of Built Environment and Development Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Thabo Letsoalo
- School of Built Environment and Development Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Chantal Munthree
- School of Built Environment and Development Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tamaryn L Crankshaw
- Health Economics HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Jennifer A Smit
- MatCH Research (Maternal, Adolescent and Child Health), Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa; School of Built Environment and Development Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Pintye J, Ngure K, Curran K, Vusha S, Mugo N, Celum C, Baeten JM, Heffron R. Fertility Decision-Making Among Kenyan HIV-Serodiscordant Couples Who Recently Conceived: Implications for Safer Conception Planning. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2015; 29:510-6. [PMID: 26301703 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2015.0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV-serodiscordant couples often choose to attempt pregnancy despite their HIV transmission risk. Optimizing delivery of HIV risk reduction strategies during peri-conception periods (i.e., safer conception) requires understanding how HIV-serodiscordant couples approach fertility decisions. We conducted 36 in-depth individual interviews with male and female partners of Kenyan heterosexual HIV-serodiscordant couples who recently conceived. Transcripts were analyzed by gender and HIV serostatus using open coding. Matrices were used to identify patterns and emerging themes. Most participants expressed acceptance of being in an HIV-serodiscordant couple and affirmed their resilience to live with serodiscordance and achieve their fertility goals. Overall, while the goal for childbearing was unchanged, conception became an urgent desire so that both partners could experience childrearing together while the HIV-infected partner was still healthy. Children also add value to the relationship, and multiple children were a commonly expressed desire. Couples' desires dominated those of individual partners in fertility decision-making, but male preferences were more influential when the individual desires differed. Values and preferences of the couple as a unit may mediate fertility decision-making in HIV-discordant couples. Thus, it is important that safer conception programs include both partners when appropriate and consider the relationship context during risk reduction counseling and when recommending risk reduction interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Pintye
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- College of Health Sciences, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Juja, Kenya
| | - Kathryn Curran
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Sophie Vusha
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nelly Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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Moore AM, Keogh S, Kavanaugh M, Bankole A, Mulambia C, Mutombo N. Bucking social norms: examining anomalous fertility aspirations in the face of HIV in Lusaka, Zambia. Soc Sci Med 2014; 119:88-97. [PMID: 25150655 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Revised: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In settings of high fertility and high HIV prevalence, individuals are making fertility decisions while simultaneously trying to avoid or manage HIV. We sought to increase our understanding of how individuals dually manage HIV risk while attempting to achieve their fertility goals as part of the project entitled HIV Status and Achieving Fertility Desires conducted in Zambia in 2011. Using multivariate regression to predict fertility patterns based on socio-demographic characteristics for respondents from facility-based and community-based surveys, we employed Anomalous Case Analysis (ACA) whereby in-depth interview respondents were selected from the groups of outliers amongst the survey respondents who reported lower or higher fertility preferences than predicted as well as those who adhered to predicted patterns, and lived in Lusaka (n=45). All of the facility-based respondents were HIV-positive. We utilize the Theory of Conjunctural Action (TCA) to categorize domains of influence on individuals' preferences and behavior. Both community-based and facility-based right-tail respondents (outliers whose fertility intentions indicated that they wanted a/nother child when we predicted that they did not) expressed comparatively less control over their fertility and gave more weight to pressures from others to continue childbearing. Partner communication about fertility desires was greater among left-tail respondents (outliers whose fertility intentions indicated that they did not want a/nother child when we predicted that they did). HIV-positive right-tail respondents were more likely to see anti-retroviral therapies (ARTs) which prevent mother to child transmission of HIV as highly effective, mitigating inhibitions to further childbearing. Drug interactions between ARTs and contraceptives were identified as a limitation to HIV-positive individuals' contraceptive options on both sides of the distribution. Factors that should be taken into account in the future to understand fertility behavior in high HIV-prevalent settings include couples' communication around fertility and perception of the efficacy of ARTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Moore
- Guttmacher Institute, 125 Maiden Lane, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10038, USA.
| | - Sarah Keogh
- Guttmacher Institute, 125 Maiden Lane, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10038, USA.
| | - Megan Kavanaugh
- Guttmacher Institute, 125 Maiden Lane, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10038, USA.
| | - Akinrinola Bankole
- Guttmacher Institute, 125 Maiden Lane, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10038, USA.
| | - Chishimba Mulambia
- Institute of Economic & Social Research, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.
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Cook R, Hayden R, Weiss SM, Jones DL. Desire for fertility among HIV-seroconcordant and -discordant couples in Lusaka, Zambia. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2014; 16:741-751. [PMID: 24815904 PMCID: PMC4090252 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2014.902103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy rates and the desire to conceive are increasing among women living with HIV in Africa. However, attempts to conceive may increase the risk of HIV transmission or reinfection. A better understanding of factors influencing fertility desires would significantly contribute to programmes to meet the reproductive needs of women living with HIV. Using a couples-based approach, this paper explored fertility desires among HIV-seroconcordant and -discordant couples in Lusaka, Zambia. Participants were 208 heterosexual couples recruited from community health clinics and their respective catchment areas. Couples completed assessments on demographics, condom use, relationship quality and communication. Desire for children was often shared among couple members, and the strongest predictor of participants' desire for children was having a partner who wanted children. Additionally, the number of children participants had, their own reports of positive communication, and their partner's HIV serostatus influenced reproductive desires. Results support the involvement of both couple members in pre-conception counselling and pregnancy planning interventions. The inclusion of both partners may be a more effective strategy to respond to the reproductive needs of couples affected by HIV, enabling them to safeguard the health of both partners and infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Cook
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Robert Hayden
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Stephen M. Weiss
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Deborah L Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Florida, USA
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Strode A, Mthembu S, Essack Z. "She made up a choice for me": 22 HIV-positive women's experiences of involuntary sterilization in two South African provinces. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH MATTERS 2013. [PMID: 23177681 DOI: 10.1016/s0968-8080(12)39643-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 1998 South African law has provided that adults should have access to sterilization but only with their informed consent. However, the right to sterilization and other sexual and reproductive rights have not been fully realized as women struggle to access limited services, and there are allegations of discrimination and sterilization abuses. This qualitative study explores the experiences of 22 HIV-positive women in two provinces who reported being sterilized between 1996 and 2010 without their informed consent (n=18) or without their knowledge (n=4). Key issues reported by participants included failure to respect their autonomy, lack of information given about what sterilization entailed, and subtle or overt pressure to sign the consent form. Although the legal framework was intended to ensure informed decision-making regarding sterilization, these protections appear to have failed the HIV-positive women in this study. The findings suggest that some health professionals may consider a signature on a consent form as sufficient regardless of how it was obtained. Furthermore the women's perceptions that they were singled out as needing to be sterilized simply because they were HIV-positive warrants further investigation. More research is required on the nature of the problem and on other stakeholders' perceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Strode
- School of Law, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
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12
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Sullivan-Pyke CS, Nurudeen SK, Grossman LC, Sauer MV, Douglas NC. Fertility treatment options for HIV-infected individuals. Future Virol 2013. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl.13.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Many HIV-serodiscordant couples desire children and physician-assisted techniques can help individuals achieve pregnancy while reducing the risk of seroconversion in their seronegative partner. For HIV-seropositive males, sperm washing with intrauterine insemination (SW-IUI) was introduced in Europe in the early 1990s, while in the USA in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF-ICSI) has been primarily used to reduce the risk of viral transmission. When properly applied to well-selected populations, no seroconversion has been reported with either of these methods. Within the last 5 years, randomized controlled studies have demonstrated the efficacy of daily pre-exposure prophylaxis in reducing the risk of seroconversion in couples having intercourse when an HIV-seropositive male has undetectable viral loads. In both the USA and Europe, favorable reproductive outcomes have been reported for HIV-seropositive females undergoing IUI and IVF-ICSI. Herein, we review the use of various contemporary reproductive techniques available to HIV-serodiscordant couples interested in having children, including new data on cumulative clinical pregnancy rates and cumulative live-birth rates after IVF-ICSI for male serodiscordant couples. We conclude by proposing that pre-exposure prophylaxis with SW-IUI may be a safe, economical and effective alternative for achieving pregnancy in well-selected, monogamous HIV-serodiscordant couples where the male partner is seropositive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantae S Sullivan-Pyke
- Columbia University, Department of OB-GYN, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, 622 W 168th Street, PH-16, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sahadat K Nurudeen
- Columbia University, Department of OB-GYN, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, 622 W 168th Street, PH-16, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Lisa C Grossman
- Columbia University, Department of OB-GYN, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, 622 W 168th Street, PH-16, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Mark V Sauer
- Columbia University, Department of OB-GYN, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, 622 W 168th Street, PH-16, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Nataki C Douglas
- Columbia University, Department of OB-GYN, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, 622 W 168th Street, PH-16, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Loutfy MR, Blitz S, Zhang Y, Hart TA, Walmsley SL, Smaill FM, Rachlis AR, Yudin MH, Angel JB, Ralph ED, Tharao W, Raboud JM. Self-Reported Preconception Care of HIV-Positive Women of Reproductive Potential: A Retrospective Study. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2013; 13:424-33. [PMID: 23918921 DOI: 10.1177/2325957413494238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We determined the proportion and correlates of self-reported pregnancy planning discussions (that is preconception counseling) that HIV-positive women reported to their family physicians (FPs), HIV specialists, and obstetrician/gynecologists (OB/Gyns). METHODS In a cross-sectional substudy, HIV-positive women of reproductive potential were asked whether their care providers discussed pregnancy planning. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios for the correlates of preconception counseling. RESULTS A total of 431 eligible participants (median age 38, interquartile range = 32-43) reported having discussion with a physician (92% FP, 96% HIV specialists, and 45% OB/Gyns). In all, 34%, 41%, and 38% had their pregnancy planning discussion with FP, HIV specialist, and Ob/Gyns, respectively; 51% overall. In the multivariable model, significant correlates of preconception counseling were age (P = .02), marital status (P < .01), number of years living in Canada (P < .001), and age of youngest child (P < .01). CONCLUSIONS Preconception care in our cohort was suboptimal. We recommend that counseling on healthy preconception should be part of routine HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona R Loutfy
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sandra Blitz
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yimeng Zhang
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Trevor A Hart
- Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sharon L Walmsley
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Anita R Rachlis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark H Yudin
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada St Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan B Angel
- Ottawa Health Research Institute and The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edward D Ralph
- Infectious Diseases Care Program, St Joseph's Health Care, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wangari Tharao
- Women's Health in Women's Hands, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janet M Raboud
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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14
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Withers M, Dworkin S, Harrington E, Kwena Z, Onono M, Bukusi E, Cohen CR, Grossma D, Newmann SJ. Fertility intentions among HIV-infected, sero-concordant couples in Nyanza province, Kenya. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2013; 15:1175-90. [PMID: 23885924 PMCID: PMC3835420 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2013.811289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Research in sub-Saharan Africa has shown significant diversity in how HIV influences infected couples' fertility intentions. Supporting HIV-infected, sero-concordant couples in sub-Saharan Africa to make informed choices about their fertility options has not received sufficient attention. In-depth interviews were conducted among 23 HIV-positive, sero-concordant married couples in Kenya, to better understand how HIV impacted fertility intentions. HIV compelled many to reconsider fertility plans, sometimes promoting childbearing intentions in some individuals but reducing fertility plans among most, largely due to fears of early death, health concerns, stigma, perinatal HIV transmission and financial difficulties (particularly in men). Preferences for sons and large families influenced some couples' intentions to continue childbearing, although none had discussed their intentions with healthcare providers. Additional support and services for HIV-infected, sero-concordant couples are needed. Family planning counselling should be tailored to the unique concerns of HIV-infected couples, addressing perinatal transmission but also individual, couple-level and socio-cultural fertility expectations. Community-level programmes are needed to reduce stigma and make HIV-infected couples more comfortable in discussing fertility intentions with healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mellissa Withers
- University of California at Los Angeles, Department of Anthropology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shari Dworkin
- University of California at San Francisco, School of Nursing, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Elizabeth Harrington
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Zachary Kwena
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Maricianah Onono
- Kenyan Medical Research Institute, Center for Microbiology Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Bukusi
- Kenyan Medical Research Institute, Center for Microbiology Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- University of California at San Francisco, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, San Francisco, CA USA; Center of Expertise in Women's Health & Empowerment, University of California Global Health Institute
| | | | - Sara J. Newmann
- University of California at San Francisco, School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Francisco, CA USA
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15
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Taylor TN, Mantell JE, Nywagi N, Cishe N, Cooper D. 'He lacks his fatherhood': safer conception technologies and the biological imperative for fatherhood among recently-diagnosed Xhosa-speaking men living with HIV in South Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2013; 15:1101-14. [PMID: 23862770 PMCID: PMC4171952 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2013.809147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This paper explores notions of fatherhood and their linkages to fertility desires and intentions among a treatment-naïve cohort of Xhosa-speaking male key informants living with HIV, aged 20-53 in Cape Town, South Africa. Analysis is based on an initial 27, and 20 follow-up, interviews with men who were part of a study that assessed the acceptability of safer conception and alternative parenting strategies among men and women newly diagnosed with HIV to inform an intervention. Grounded theory analysis revealed themes related to the cultural imperative of biologically-connected fatherhood. Certain safer-conception strategies aimed at minimising the risk of HIV transmission were perceived as threats to paternity. These findings suggest that understanding of social and cultural beliefs related to notions of paternity and fatherhood may inform the implementation of acceptable safer-conception options for HIV-positive men and their infected and uninfected female partners in a high-HIV prevalence, low-resource setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonya N. Taylor
- College of Medicine/Special Treatment and Research Program, State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Joanne E. Mantell
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Ntobeko Nywagi
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nomazizi Cishe
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Diane Cooper
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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16
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Matthews LT, Smit JA, Cu-Uvin S, Cohan D. Antiretrovirals and safer conception for HIV-serodiscordant couples. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2013; 7:569-78. [PMID: 23032734 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0b013e328358bac9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Many men and women living with HIV and their uninfected partners attempt to conceive children. HIV-prevention science can be applied to reduce sexual transmission risk while respecting couples' reproductive goals. Here we discuss antiretrovirals as prevention in the context of safer conception for HIV-serodiscordant couples. RECENT FINDINGS Antiretroviral therapy (ART) for the infected partner and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the uninfected partner reduce the risk of heterosexual HIV transmission. Several demonstration projects suggest the feasibility and acceptability of antiretroviral (ARV)s as periconception HIV-prevention for HIV-serodiscordant couples. The application of ARVs to periconception risk reduction may be limited by adherence. SUMMARY For male-infected (M+F-) couples who cannot access sperm processing and female-infected (F+M-) couples unwilling to carry out insemination without intercourse, ART for the infected partner, PrEP for the uninfected partner, combined with treatment for sexually transmitted infections, sex limited to peak fertility, and medical male circumcision (for F+M couples) provide excellent, well tolerated options for reducing the risk of periconception HIV sexual transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn T Matthews
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Center for Global Health and Division of Infectious Disease, Boston, USA.
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17
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Crankshaw TL, Matthews LT, Giddy J, Kaida A, Ware NC, Smit JA, Bangsberg DR. A conceptual framework for understanding HIV risk behavior in the context of supporting fertility goals among HIV-serodiscordant couples. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH MATTERS 2012; 20:50-60. [PMID: 23177680 PMCID: PMC3608509 DOI: 10.1016/s0968-8080(12)39639-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrated reproductive health services for people living with HIV must address their fertility intentions. For HIV-serodiscordant couples who want to conceive, attempted conception confers a substantial risk of HIV transmission to the uninfected partner. Behavioral and pharmacologic strategies may reduce HIV transmission risk among HIV-serodiscordant couples who seek to conceive. In order to develop effective pharmaco-behavioral programs, it is important to understand and address the contexts surrounding reproductive decision-making; perceived periconception HIV transmission risk; and periconception risk behaviors. We present a conceptual framework to describe the dynamics involved in periconception HIV risk behaviors in a South African setting. We adapt the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skill Model of HIV Preventative Behavior to address the structural, individual and couple-level determinants of safer conception behavior. The framework is intended to identify factors that influence periconception HIV risk behavior among serodiscordant couples, and therefore to guide design and implementation of integrated and effective HIV, reproductive health and family planning services that support reproductive decision-making.
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18
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Kavanaugh ML, Moore AM, Akinyemi O, Adewole I, Dzekedzeke K, Awolude O, Arulogun O. Community attitudes towards childbearing and abortion among HIV-positive women in Nigeria and Zambia. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2012; 15:160-74. [PMID: 23173695 PMCID: PMC3545282 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2012.745271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Although stigma towards HIV-positive women for both continuing and terminating a pregnancy has been documented, to date few studies have examined relative stigma towards one outcome versus the other. This study seeks to describe community attitudes towards each of two possible elective outcomes of an HIV-positive woman's pregnancy - induced abortion or birth - to determine which garners more stigma and document characteristics of community members associated with stigmatising attitudes towards each outcome. Data come from community-based interviews with reproductive-aged men and women, 2401 in Zambia and 2452 in Nigeria. Bivariate and multivariate analyses revealed that respondents from both countries overwhelmingly favoured continued childbearing for HIV-positive pregnant women, but support for induced abortion was slightly higher in scenarios in which anti-retroviral therapy (ART) was unavailable. Zambian respondents held more stigmatising attitudes towards abortion for HIV-positive women than did Nigerian respondents. Women held more stigmatising attitudes towards abortion for HIV-positive women than men, particularly in Zambia. From a sexual and reproductive health and rights perspective, efforts to assist HIV-positive women in preventing unintended pregnancy and to support them in their pregnancy decisions when they do become pregnant should be encouraged in order to combat the social stigma documented in this paper.
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19
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Finocchario-Kessler S, Bastos FI, Malta M, Anderson J, Goggin K, Sweat M, Dariotis J, Bertoni N, Kerrigan D. Discussing childbearing with HIV-infected women of reproductive age in clinical care: a comparison of Brazil and the US. AIDS Behav 2012; 16:99-107. [PMID: 21359541 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-011-9906-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Despite long term access to highly active antiretroviral therapy in Brazil and the US, little is known about women's communication with their HIV provider regarding childbearing or the unmet need for reproductive counseling. We utilized identical survey questions to collect data from HIV-infected women of reproductive age in Rio de Janeiro (n = 180) and Baltimore (n = 181). We conducted univariate analyses to compare findings between samples of women and multivariate logistic regression to determine factors associated with childbearing desires, childbearing intentions, and provider communication among the combined sample of women (n = 361). Over one-third of women in Rio de Janeiro and nearly one-half of women in Baltimore reported the desire for future childbearing. Nevertheless, the majority of women in clinical care had not discussed future childbearing with their HIV provider. Even in countries with an advanced approach to HIV care, we found low and inadequate communication between providers and female patients about childbearing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Finocchario-Kessler
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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20
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Macgregor H, Mills E. Framing rights and responsibilities: accounts of women with a history of AIDS activism. BMC INTERNATIONAL HEALTH AND HUMAN RIGHTS 2011; 11 Suppl 3:S7. [PMID: 22376178 PMCID: PMC3287463 DOI: 10.1186/1472-698x-11-s3-s7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background In South Africa, policy with respect to HIV/AIDS has had a strong rights-based framing in line with international trends and in keeping with the constitutional overhaul in the post-Apartheid era. There have also been considerable advances since 1994 towards legal enshrinement of sexual and reproductive health rights and in the provision of related services. Since HIV in this setting has heavily affected women of reproductive age, there has been discussion about the particular needs of this subgroup, especially in the context of service integration. This paper is concerned with the way in which HIV positive women conceptualise these rights and whether they wish and are able to actualise them in their daily lives. Methods In 2003 a group of women involved with the Treatment Action Campaign and Medicines Sans Frontières participated in an initiative to ‘map’ their bodies as affected by the virus. A book containing the maps and narratives was published and used as a political tool to pressure the government of the day to roll out antiretroviral therapy (ART) to the population. In 2008, the authors coordinated an initiative that involved conducting follow-up in-depth interviews in which five of these women reflected on those body maps and on how their lives had changed in the intervening five years since gaining the right to treatment through the public sector. Results Drawing upon this qualitative data and published sources, these new accounts are analysed in order to reflect the perspectives of these women living with chronic HIV with respect to their sexual relations and fertility desires. The paper reveals difficulties faced by these women in negotiating sexual relationships and disclosure of their HIV positive status. It focuses on how they perceive relative responsibilities in terms of taking preventative measures in sexual encounters. Women adopt tactics within a context characterised by various inequalities in order to ‘make do’, such as by remaining silent about their status. Concerns about childbearing can be addressed by information and support from a health care worker. Conclusions Women’s experience of HIV as a chronic illness and the need to adhere to ART, is linked to the way in which the language of responsibility can come to counter-balance a language of rights in treatment programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Macgregor
- Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9RE, UK.
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21
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Chi BK, Rasch V, Thị Thúy Hạnh N, Gammeltoft T. Pregnancy decision-making among HIV positive women in Northern Vietnam: reconsidering reproductive choice. Anthropol Med 2011; 18:315-26. [DOI: 10.1080/13648470.2011.615909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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22
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Orner PJ, de Bruyn M, Barbosa RM, Boonstra H, Gatsi-Mallet J, Cooper DD. Access to safe abortion: building choices for women living with HIV and AIDS. J Int AIDS Soc 2011; 14:54. [PMID: 22078463 PMCID: PMC3253672 DOI: 10.1186/1758-2652-14-54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2010] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In many areas of the world where HIV prevalence is high, rates of unintended pregnancy and unsafe abortion have also been shown to be high. Of all pregnancies worldwide in 2008, 41% were reported as unintended or unplanned, and approximately 50% of these ended in abortion. Of the estimated 21.6 million unsafe abortions occurring worldwide in 2008 (around one in 10 pregnancies), approximately 21.2 million occurred in developing countries, often due to restrictive abortion laws and leading to an estimated 47,000 maternal deaths and untold numbers of women who will suffer long-term health consequences. Despite this context, little research has focused on decisions about and experiences of women living with HIV with regard to terminating a pregnancy, although this should form part of comprehensive promotion of sexual and reproductive health rights. In this paper, we explore the existing evidence related to global and country-specific barriers to safe abortion for all women, with an emphasis on research gaps around the right of women living with HIV to choose safe abortion services as an option for dealing with unwanted pregnancies. The main focus is on the situation for women living with HIV in Brazil, Namibia and South Africa as examples of three countries with different conditions regarding women's access to safe legal abortions: a very restrictive setting, a setting with several indications for legal abortion but non-implementation of the law, and a rather liberal setting. Similarities and differences are discussed, and we further outline global and country-specific barriers to safe abortion for all women, ending with recommendations for policy makers and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis J Orner
- School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Orner P, de Bruyn M, Cooper D. 'It hurts, but I don't have a choice, I'm not working and I'm sick': decisions and experiences regarding abortion of women living with HIV in Cape Town, South Africa. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2011; 13:781-795. [PMID: 21656408 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2011.577907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Research was conducted with 36 women living with HIV in Cape Town, South Africa, regarding their decision-making about, and experiences with, abortion of unwanted pregnancies in the public health sector. Abortion intentions and decisions were explored by investigating influencing factors; knowledge of abortion policy and public health sector services; and abortion perceptions and experiences. Findings reveal that many women face censure both for becoming pregnant and terminating a pregnancy, including by family, partners, community members and healthcare providers. Data suggest that abortion may be more stigmatised than HIV despite South Africa's liberal abortion law. Generally, however, study participants were satisfied with the abortion care received. Most would advise women living with HIV to think carefully about abortion, but to make a decision in their own best interests, including only seeking care early in pregnancy from an accredited clinic. Study implications include a need to integrate information and counselling on safe legal abortion within sexual and reproductive health services, especially in efforts to integrate sexual and reproductive health into HIV care, and to forge greater linkages between HIV and abortion services more generally to ensure continuity in follow-up of care for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis Orner
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Cooper S, Ssebunnya J, Kigozi F, Lund C, Flisher A. Viewing Uganda's mental health system through a human rights lens. Int Rev Psychiatry 2011; 22:578-88. [PMID: 21226646 DOI: 10.3109/09540261.2010.536151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
There has been increased global concern about the human rights violations experienced by people with mental disorders. The aim of this study was to analyse Uganda's mental health care system through a human rights lens. A survey of the existing mental health system in Uganda was conducted using the WHO Assessment Instrument for Mental Health Systems. In addition, 62 interviews and six focus groups were conducted with a broad range of mental health stakeholders at the national and district levels. Despite possessing a draft mental health policy that is in line with many international human rights standards, Uganda's mental health system inadequately promotes and protects, and frequently violates the human rights of people with mental disorders. The mental health legislation is offensive and stigmatizing. It is common for people accessing mental health services to encounter physical and emotional abuse and an inadequate quality of care. Mental health services are inequitably distributed. Within Ugandan society, people with mental disorders also frequently experience widespread stigma and discrimination, and limited support. Promoting and protecting the rights of people with mental disorders has ethical and public health imperatives. A number of policy, legislative and service development initiatives are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Cooper
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
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Orner P, de Bruyn M, Harries J, Cooper D. A qualitative exploration of HIV-positive pregnant women's decision-making regarding abortion in Cape Town, South Africa. SAHARA J 2010; 7:44-51. [PMID: 21409294 PMCID: PMC11132958 DOI: 10.1080/17290376.2010.9724956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV-positive women's abortion decisions were explored by: (i) investigating influencing factors; (ii) determining knowledge of abortion policy and public health services; and (iii) exploring abortion experiences. In-depth interviews were held with 24 HIV-positive women (15 had an abortion; 9 did not), recruited at public health facilities in Cape Town, South Africa. Negative perceptions towards HIV-positive pregnant women were reported. Women wanted abortions due to socio-economic hardship in conjunction with HIV-positive status. Respondents were generally aware that women in South Africa had a right to free abortions in public health facilities. Both positive and negative abortion experiences were described. Respondents reported no discrimination by providers due to their HIV-positive status. Most respondents reported not using contraceptives, while describing their pregnancies as 'unexpected'. The majority of women who had abortions wanted to avoid another one, and would encourage other HIV-positive women to try to avoid abortion. However, most felt abortions were acceptable for HIV-positive women in some circumstances. Data suggested that stigma and discrimination affect connections between abortion, pregnancy and HIV/AIDS, and that abortion may be more stigmatised than HIV/AIDS. Study results provide important insights, and any revision of reproductive health policy, services, counselling for abortion and HIV/AIDS care should address these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis Orner
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town.
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Nöstlinger C, Nideröst S, Woo R, Platteau T, Loos J, Colebunders R, The Swiss HIV Cohort Study, The Eurosupport 5 Study Group. Mirror, mirror on the wall: the face of HIV + women in Europe today. AIDS Care 2010; 22:919-26. [DOI: 10.1080/09540121003758564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Nöstlinger
- a Department of Clinical Sciences , Prins Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - S. Nideröst
- b School of Social Work , University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland , Olten , Switzerland
| | - R. Woo
- a Department of Clinical Sciences , Prins Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - T. Platteau
- a Department of Clinical Sciences , Prins Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - J. Loos
- a Department of Clinical Sciences , Prins Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine , Antwerp , Belgium
| | - R. Colebunders
- a Department of Clinical Sciences , Prins Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine , Antwerp , Belgium
- c Faculty of Medicine , University of Antwerp , Antwerp , Belgium
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Beyeza-Kashesya J, Ekstrom AM, Kaharuza F, Mirembe F, Neema S, Kulane A. My partner wants a child: a cross-sectional study of the determinants of the desire for children among mutually disclosed sero-discordant couples receiving care in Uganda. BMC Public Health 2010; 10:247. [PMID: 20465794 PMCID: PMC2877675 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-10-247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2009] [Accepted: 05/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The percentages of couples in HIV sero-discordant relationships range from 5 to 31% in the various countries of Africa. Given the importance of procreation and the lack of assisted reproduction to avoid partner transmission, members of these couples are faced with a serious dilemma even after the challenge of disclosing their HIV status to their spouses. Identifying the determinants of the decision to have children among sero-discordant couples will help in setting reproductive intervention priorities in resource-poor countries. METHODS We conducted a survey among 114 mutually disclosed sero-discordant couples (228 individuals) receiving HIV care at four centres in Greater Kampala, between June and December 2007. The data we collected was classified according to whether the man or the woman was HIV-positive. We carried out multivariate logistic regression modelling to determine factors (age, gender, and the influences of relatives and of health workers, ART knowledge, and disclosure) that are independently associated with a desire for children. RESULTS The majority, 59%, of the participants, desired to have children. The belief that their partner wanted children was a major determinant of the desire to have children, irrespective of the HIV sero-status (adjusted odds ratio 24.0 (95% CI 9.15, 105.4)). Among couples in which the woman was HIV-positive, young age and relatives' expectations for children were significantly associated with increased fertility desire, while among couples in which the man was positive; knowledge of ART effectiveness was associated with increased fertility desire. Availability of information on contraception was associated with decreased fertility desire. CONCLUSIONS The gender of the positive partner affects the factors associated with a desire for children. Interventions targeting sero-discordant couples should explore contraceptive choices, the cultural importance of children, and partner communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolly Beyeza-Kashesya
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynaecology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Mia Ekstrom
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frank Kaharuza
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynaecology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Florence Mirembe
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynaecology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Stella Neema
- Makerere University Institute of Social Research, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Asli Kulane
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Abstract
As life expectancy for HIV-infected persons improves, studies in sub-Saharan Africa show that a considerable proportion of HIV-positive women and men desire to have children. Integrating sexual and reproductive health care into HIV services has until now emphasized the right of women to make informed choices about their reproductive lives and the right of self-determination to reproduce, but this is often equated with avoidance of pregnancy. Here, we explore guidance and attention to safer conception for HIV-infected women and men. We find this right lacking. Current sexual and reproductive health guidelines are not proactive in supporting HIV-positive people desiring children, and are particularly silent about the fertility needs of HIV-infected men and uninfected men in discordant partnerships. Public health policymakers and providers need to engage the HIV-infected and uninfected to determine both the demand for and how best to address the need for safer conception services.
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Loutfy MR, Hart TA, Mohammed SS, Su D, Ralph ED, Walmsley SL, Soje LC, Muchenje M, Rachlis AR, Smaill FM, Angel JB, Raboud JM, Silverman MS, Tharao WE, Gough K, Yudin MH. Fertility desires and intentions of HIV-positive women of reproductive age in Ontario, Canada: a cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2009; 4:e7925. [PMID: 19997556 PMCID: PMC2785467 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0007925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2009] [Accepted: 10/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improvements in life expectancy and quality of life for HIV-positive women coupled with reduced vertical transmission will likely lead numerous HIV-positive women to consider becoming pregnant. In order to clarify the demand, and aid with appropriate health services planning for this population, our study aims to assess the fertility desires and intentions of HIV-positive women of reproductive age living in Ontario, Canada. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A cross-sectional study with recruitment stratified to match the geographic distribution of HIV-positive women of reproductive age (18-52) living in Ontario was carried out. Women were recruited from 38 sites between October 2007 and April 2009 and invited to complete a 189-item self-administered survey entitled "The HIV Pregnancy Planning Questionnaire" designed to assess fertility desires, intentions and actions. Logistic regression models were fit to calculate unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios of significant predictors of fertility intentions. The median age of the 490 participating HIV-positive women was 38 (IQR, 32-43) and 61%, 52%, 47% and 74% were born outside of Canada, living in Toronto, of African ethnicity and currently on antiretroviral therapy, respectively. Of total respondents, 69% (95% CI, 64%-73%) desired to give birth and 57% (95% CI, 53%-62%) intended to give birth in the future. In the multivariable model, the significant predictors of fertility intentions were: younger age (age<40) (p<0.0001), African ethnicity (p<0.0001), living in Toronto (p = 0.002), and a lower number of lifetime births (p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The proportions of HIV-positive women of reproductive age living in Ontario desiring and intending pregnancy were higher than reported in earlier North American studies. Proportions were more similar to those reported from African populations. Healthcare providers and policy makers need to consider increasing services and support for pregnancy planning for HIV-positive women. This may be particularly significant in jurisdictions with high levels of African immigration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona R Loutfy
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Impact of HIV treatment scale-up on women's reproductive health care and reproductive rights in Southern Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2009; 52 Suppl 1:S52-3. [PMID: 19858940 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0b013e3181bbc818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The HIV epidemic has changed the face of women's reproductive health across southern Africa. In some circles, there have been calls for restrictions on women's reproductive rights, focusing particularly on the spread of HIV between sexual partners and from mother to child. However, during the past decade, public health attention and resources for the clinical care of HIV-infected individuals living in Africa have led to advances in women's reproductive health services. As many programs have recognized that effective HIV care and treatment services must link to other areas of primary care, key reproductive health services such as those providing contraception and barrier methods are commonly integrated into antiretroviral therapy services. In much of the region, this programmatic focus has helped increase attention on the ground to women's reproductive rights. However, in many settings, policies explicitly supporting the reproductive rights of HIV-infected women have lagged. Important gaps remain both in policy development and in the design, evaluation, and implementation of interventions promoting women's reproductive health and rights at the service delivery level.
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Harries J, Stinson K, Orner P. Health care providers' attitudes towards termination of pregnancy: a qualitative study in South Africa. BMC Public Health 2009; 9:296. [PMID: 19689791 PMCID: PMC2734857 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-9-296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2009] [Accepted: 08/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite changes to the abortion legislation in South Africa in 1996, barriers to women accessing abortion services still exist including provider opposition to abortions and a shortage of trained and willing abortion care providers. The dearth of abortion providers undermines the availability of safe, legal abortion, and has serious implications for women's access to abortion services and health service planning. In South Africa, little is known about the personal and professional attitudes of individuals who are currently working in abortion service provision. Exploring the factors which determine health care providers' involvement or disengagement in abortion services may facilitate improvement in the planning and provision of future services. Methods Qualitative research methods were used to collect data. Thirty four in-depth interviews and one focus group discussion were conducted during 2006 and 2007 with health care providers who were involved in a range of abortion provision in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Results Complex patterns of service delivery were prevalent throughout many of the health care facilities, and fragmented levels of service provision operated in order to accommodate health care providers' willingness to be involved in different aspects of abortion provision. Related to this was the need expressed by many providers for dedicated, stand-alone abortion clinics thereby creating a more supportive environment for both clients and providers. Almost all providers were concerned about the numerous difficulties women faced in seeking an abortion and their general quality of care. An overriding concern was poor pre and post abortion counselling including contraceptive counselling and provision. Conclusion This is the first known qualitative study undertaken in South Africa exploring providers' attitudes towards abortion and adds to the body of information addressing the barriers to safe abortion services. In order to sustain a pool of abortion providers, programmes which both attract prospective abortion providers, and retain existing providers, needs to be developed and financial compensation for abortion care providers needs to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Harries
- Women's Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925, Cape Town, South Africa.
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