Pregnancy and motherhood in the narratives of women with HIV infection living in the metropolitan area of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Abstract

This chapter discusses qualitative data from a broader research project supported by WHO that aims at identifying the obstacles to the provision of more integral health care to women living with HIV in the metropolitan area of Buenos Aires. The first phase of the study explored women's experiences, needs, and expectations regarding pregnancy, vertical transmission prevention, condom use, and reproductive intentions through a survey applied to women attending CNRS (National Reference Center for AIDS) for their viral load or CD4 tests or for their babies' diagnosis (N = 169). Based on the results of 2009 survey, the authors interviewed a dozen of women taking their babies for lab tests. Interview guidelines focused on time and circumstances when they were notified about their HIV infection; experience in relation to diagnosis, reconstruction of the steps taken since then, and perception of difficulties and facilitators in the care provided by the health services; partner's role; pregnancy experience; and reproductive intentions. Findings indicate that getting an HIV-positive result, particularly during pregnancy, is a very difficult situation that awakes strong and contradictory feelings (fear, shame, anger, sorrow). Nevertheless, the fact that an offspring, whether wanted or unexpected, is associated with life counterbalances in some way the feelings elicited by the diagnosis. After the initial shock, HIV infection becomes part of women's life and does not have a unique impact on their sexual and reproductive behavior. Interviewees complied with treatment to prevent vertical transmission as part of their responsibilities to their offspring but tended to postpone their own care. The priority given to children, whether it is that women delay treatment or follow treatment because of them, confirms the centrality motherhood has in these women's lives. Coping with the infection and other adverse situations seemed to have empowered women regarding their contraceptive and reproductive needs and wishes.