Psychological distress among HIV-positive pregnant and postpartum women in Thailand

Abstract

The HIV infection rates among women have been reported at 1-3 % in different parts of Thailand. Most HIV transmission has been found to be heterosexual through husband/partner's promiscuity in Thailand. However, when infected with the virus, Thai women can feel stigmatized and depressed. This chapter will include topics concerning HIV-positive pregnant and postpartum Thai women in relation to their lived experiences, psychological disturbances (depressive symptoms), physical symptoms, a Buddhist way to cope with HIV infection, and recommendations for health-care professionals.