A qualitative study of HIV serodiscordant patients accessing assisted reproductive treatment

Abstract

Objective: To explore the medical and psychosocial experiences of HIV serodiscordant patients attending an Assisted Reproductive Treatment (ART) programme. Design: Twenty couples in treatment from June 2008 to June 2009 were sent written invitations to participate in the study. Method: A semi-structured interview investigating the client’s HIV history, family decision-making, engagement with and experiences of the programme was conducted. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic content analysis was used. Results: Six couples expressed an interest to participate in the study, with a final sample of 10 participants comprising of 4 couples and 2 individuals. Participants demonstrated varying levels of understanding in relation to the medical implications of treatment including vertical and horizontal transmission risks and ART procedures. Infertility-related stresses were highlighted including the quality of the couple’s interpersonal relationships, the emotional, physical and financial burden of treatment and the impact of fertility treatment on their work/life balance. Disclosure of HIV status and managing confidentiality were also significant challenges for participants of this programme. Conclusion: Participants’ experiences of the programme have been positive, though varied. They expressed high expectations of the programme, particularly regarding the likelihood of a pregnancy. HIV was not seen by the clients to be a clinical indicator for infertility.

Keywords:

• HIV
• serodiscordant
• assisted reproduction
• IVF
• pregnancy

Acknowledgements

All three authors contributed significantly to the undertaking of this study. MG developed the semi-structured question and was principally involved in overseeing the management of the study. SP sent out invitations to participate, conducted and transcribed all interviews. All authors participated in the development of the manuscript, including editing and revision. All authors gave final approval for publication.