Population Council Research that makes a difference

Abstract

Sexual and reproductive health needs of recently pregnant and pregnant HIV-infected women in Mexico 
Presentation at the American Public Health Association 136th Annual Meeting & Exposition, San Diego, 25-29 October
Garcia,Sandra G.; van Dijk,Marieke G.; Fukuda,Dawn; Diaz,Claudia
Publication date: 2009


Background
The number of women living with HIV in Mexico is rising. However, little is known about their sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs. We have begun a two-pronged qualitative study among HIV-infected women and their healthcare providers in Mexico. Among women, we are documenting their broader SRH needs, as well as exploring pregnancy management decisions and the quality of information and treatment received. Furthermore, we are exploring opinions and practices of healthcare providers concerning SRH care for HIV-infected women.

Methods
We are carrying out in-depth interviews with a sample of 30 women who were recently pregnant (with different pregnancy outcomes: live birth, miscarriage, or induced abortion) and 10 currently pregnant women in Mexico City and Guanajuato state. We will interview 18 healthcare providers. Although we have a rough target sample size, for each participant group we will sample until we reach saturation of the data.

Results
Fieldwork is underway, and results will be analyzed by June 2008. Using a grounded theory approach, we will map out the experiences of HIV-infected Mexican women with their healthcare providers, and to the extent permitted by the data, we will present a theory-based typology of interactions, including participant-based recommendations for improving relevant quality of care. We will analyze data from healthcare providers in a similar manner.

Conclusion
This information will be helpful in identifying resources that support HIV-infected women to have better SRH, improved access to HIV treatment and MTCT services, or improved access to safe abortion services (if desired).

Learning objectives
(1) Understand the sexual and reproductive health needs, including pregnancy management decisions, of HIV-infected women in Mexico. (2) List the main barriers in obtaining sexual and reproductive health care that HIV-infected women encounter. (3) Describe the health care providers' perspective on sexual and reproductive health care for HIV-infected women.