Lived Experiences of HIV Positive Mothers

Abstract

: HIV is linked to social isolation, disrupted family roles and includes various psychological and psychosocial issues. The consequences of being HIV positive results in rejection on the part of family and friends. The present study was conducted to gain deeper understanding of the lived experiences of HIV positive mothers and to explore psychological and psychosocial issues in relation with HIV positive status of the mothers. Phenomenological qualitative design was used, 10 HIV positive mothers were selected using purposive sampling technique as per the pre determined inclusion criteria. Semi structured interview schedule was used for data collection. Voice recording of the conversation was done; the transcript was then thematically analyzed using open code 4.02 software. Coding and categorization of the transcript was done using the software, based on that major 6 themes were emerged. The findings of the study revealed certain themes like initial impact of being HIV positive, components influencing familial harmony, birthing and mothering experience after being diagnosed as HIV positive, multifarious support system, deprived of psychosocial support, cognizance of numerous therapeutic and restorative measures related to HIV. Living with HIV is a serious concern because it subjects individual to constant stress and fears of various kinds.