HIV diagnosis in pregnancy: a yearn for psychosocial support amongst pregnant women

Abstract

Pregnancy can be associated with excitement at the thought of adding a new member to a family. Many occurrences may as well accompany it, some of which are expected physical changes. However, an HIV diagnosis while pregnant may hinder the psychosocial health outcome of the pregnant mother and affect her response to the pregnancy as a result of the HIV test. To that effect, the psychosocial needs of the pregnant mother post HIV-positive test must be catered for. This paper explored the psychosocial support needs of pregnant women diagnosed with HIV during pregnancy. A qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive design was followed. Data were collected using an interview guide from 20 purposefully sampled women at a clinic in the Thembisile-Hani district municipality. Five themes emerged and findings indicated the need for psychosocial support from groups, family and healthcare professionals. A lack of post-result counselling also emerged with the results. The study exposed gaps between what HIV-positive mothers require as support and what they receive from the healthcare facilities. This indicated the need to implement adequate post-testing education and counselling fit for the psychosocial needs of pregnant HIV-positive women.