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Ex Vivo Infection of Human Lymphoid Tissue and Female Genital Mucosa with Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 and Histoculture
Published on: October 12, 2018
[Intimate relationships narratives of women living with HIV]
Yi-Yin Lai1, Ming-Chu Feng, Ling-Fang Cheng
1Department of Nursing, National Cheng Kung University, ROC.
Background:
An estimated 70% of women with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continue to engage in sexual activity after receiving a positive diagnosis. However, such women experience stigmatization because of their disease and find it difficult to maintain an intimate relationship.
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to explore the intimate relationships of women living with HIV.
Methods:
A narrative inquiry was conducted and a semi-structured interview outline was used to collect data.
Results:
Interviews with five HIV+ women found each of their intimate relationship experiences exhibited the following five stages: 1) loving relationships began, but were given up easily; 2) inner conflict about whether to love or not to love; 3) a desire not to hold back on love; 4) accept love with doubts, but avoid talking about such doubts; and 5) love and live with HIV.
Conclusions/Implications For Practice:
Health professionals can assist women with HIV and their partners to discuss their life experiences in order to express their needs at different stages of their post-HIV diagnosis intimate relationship.
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