“PrEP protects us”: Behavioural, normative, and control beliefs influencing pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake among pregnant and breastfeeding women in Zambia

Abstract

Background: Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women at elevated HIV risk, uptake has been low in Zambia. Methods: In in-depth interviews, we explored beliefs about PrEP among 24 HIV-negative pregnant and breastfeeding Zambian women. Thematic analysis was used to identify behavioural, normative and control beliefs likely to influence PrEP uptake. Results: Most women viewed PrEP as a good method of protecting themselves and their babies from HIV infection. Partners were cited as key referents in decision making about PrEP use. Many women felt that PrEP use was not entirely in their control. Most reported that they would not use PrEP if their partners did not approve. Health care providers with negative attitudes, long distance to clinics, and extended waiting times were cited as barriers to PrEP uptake. Conclusion: HIV-negative pregnant and breastfeeding women had a positive attitude towards PrEP but barriers to uptake are multifaceted.