Psychological distress experienced by pregnant women undergoing antiretroviral treatment: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: The psychological condition of pregnant women with HIV is often a significant barrier to initiating and adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Psychological distress in these women, if left unaddressed, can lead to poor treatment adherence, increasing the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Managing psychological distress caused by HIV early is crucial for optimizing maternal health outcomes and reducing transmission risks.Objectives: This study aims to explore the psychological distress experienced by pregnant women with HIV undergoing ART and to identify ways to improve treatment adherence and reduce the risk of HIV transmission to their children.Methods: A qualitative research design with a descriptive phenomenological approach was used. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected from five participants through semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Data analysis was performed using ATLAS.ti software.Results: Four main themes emerged from the data: psychological factors, sociocultural influences, stressors, and life pressures. The study revealed that pregnant women undergoing ART experience significant anxiety, particularly concerning lifelong medication use and the potential transmission of HIV to their babies.Conclusions: Pregnant women undergoing ART are highly vulnerable to anxiety, driven by concerns about their health and the possibility of transmitting HIV to their children. Family support plays a crucial role in helping mothers manage their anxiety, improve ART adherence, and cope with their psychological distress. Additionally, the legal and religious status of marriage was identified as a key factor contributing to stress, further increasing the risk of anxiety and depression among participants.

Keywords

• hiv/aids
• pregnant women
• psychological distress
• anxiety