Mbatha Trusty L, Dube Adiele
Department of Nursing Sciences, Southern Africa Nazarene University, Manzini, Swaziland.
J Patient Exp. 2021 Dec 6;8:23743735211065272. doi: 10.1177/23743735211065272. eCollection 2021.
eSwatini is a small population-sized sub-Sahara African country characterized by its highest human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence globally. The prevalence of HIV among pregnant women is above 40%. In the past decade, the Government of eSwatini has demonstrated a high level of commitment to virally suppress HIV spread among its population. This study explored the perceptions and experiences of HIV-positive pregnant mothers regarding the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) Option B+ program in order to discuss and address the gaps in the health system. Qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive research design was used. Data was collected through in-depth interviews and field notes. Data was gathered from all cases of HIV-positive pregnant mothers enrolled at a Public Health Unit. Seventeen pregnant women aged between 18 and 40 years participated. Findings revealed that the Option B+ program was positively perceived as preventing HIV from mother-to-child. It boosts the immune system, deters opportunistic infections, and prolongs life. Knowledge and understanding of the program were displayed despite challenges such as discrimination and no support from families. PMTCT Option B+ intervention was found to be effective in reducing mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Gaps between women and men about HIV and antiretroviral therapy need to be addressed through target messaging and stigmatization discussions so that men are encouraged to disclose their HIV status. Improving access to antiretroviral and retention of women on treatment can further reduce vertical HIV infection transmission.
斯威士兰是撒哈拉以南非洲的一个人口小国，其全球人类免疫缺陷病毒（HIV）感染率最高。孕妇中的HIV感染率超过40%。在过去十年中，斯威士兰政府在抑制HIV在其人口中传播方面表现出了高度的决心。本研究探讨了HIV阳性孕妇对预防母婴传播（PMTCT）B+方案的看法和经历，以讨论和解决卫生系统中的差距。采用了定性、探索性和描述性研究设计。通过深入访谈和实地记录收集数据。数据收集自公共卫生单位登记的所有HIV阳性孕妇病例。17名年龄在18至40岁之间的孕妇参与了研究。研究结果显示，B+方案在预防HIV母婴传播方面得到了积极认可。它能增强免疫系统、预防机会性感染并延长寿命。尽管存在歧视和家庭不支持等挑战，但孕妇们对该方案仍有一定的了解。研究发现，PMTCT B+干预措施在减少HIV母婴传播方面是有效的。需要通过针对性的宣传和关于污名化的讨论来解决男女在HIV和抗逆转录病毒疗法方面的认知差距，以便鼓励男性披露自己的HIV感染状况。改善抗逆转录病毒药物的可及性以及提高女性的治疗依从性可以进一步减少HIV垂直感染传播。
