Reproductive and sexual health concerns in HIV-positive youth, aged 15 to 24 years

Abstract

Introduction: Recognition of reproductive and sexual needs of HIV-positive youth provides health planners and policy-makers with required information to take practical measures in addressing this challenge. Therefore, this study targeted at explaining the reproductive and sexual health concerns of HIV-positive youth. Material and methods: The present descriptive qualitative study was performed using content analysis approach. To collect data, in-depth semi-structured personal interviews were conducted in a calm and private environment. As a result, 19 interviews were done among 17 HIV-positive young people, aged 15 to 24 years (11 girls and 6 boys). Data were analyzed using MAXQDA software, version 12. Results: Followed by analyzing the content of interviews, focusing on the reproductive-sexual health concerns of HIV-positive youth, five categories and 16 sub-categories were obtained. Categories included mental disorders, social exclusion, sexual problems, physical problems, and lack of optimal health services. Conclusions: Patients' psychological, physical, and sexual problems, along with incomplete awareness of their reproductive and sexual issues, can cause irreparable personal and social health consequences. In this manner, the reproductive and sexual needs of young people should be considered, and more practical interventions are required in this field.