Barriers and facilitators influencing the use of HIV self-testing amongst adolescent girls and young women in South Africa.

Abstract

Introduction: Despite global strides in HIV testing strategies in recent years, such as home testing and non-medical testing sites, HIV testing uptake and access to treatment, care, and support remain at very low access levels amongst key and priority populations, such as adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). The study assessed the barriers and facilitators influencing the use of HIV self-testing (HIVST) among AGYW in Sekhukhune Technical Vocational Education and Training college, South Africa.

Methods: An institution-based descriptive exploratory qualitative study was employed in which 22 AGYW were purposively sampled. Data were collected through four focus group discussions with an average of six participants between February and April 2024. The data were analysed thematically.

Results: The participants were enrolled on levels 2 to 6 of training (age range = 19 to 24 years). Fear, doubt, and anxiety regarding HIVST results, mental health concerns after self-testing, and concerns over the accuracy and the interpretation of results were barriers linked to HIVST use. Convenience, privacy, and ease of use made HIVST appealing to AGYW.

Conclusion: To ensure the successful implementation of HIVST interventions, there is a need to implement a tailored modality that is appealing to AGYW. This should focus on addressing current HIVST barriers and leveraging facilitators to enhance HIVST uptake among AGYW.