Exploring the Problems and Challenges of HIV-Infected Women: a qualitative study

Although HIV-infected women in Iran face many problems, researches in this area are limited. This research aims to understand and deeply comprehend the issues and challenges of HIV-infected women.

Qualitative content analysis was used in this study and participants in the research of HIV-infected women were using three supportive health centers in Tehran. 17 participants were selected through purposive sampling method. The data collection technique is a semi-structured in-depth interview. Thematic data were coded and interpreted using thematic analysis.

6 categories of interview analysis were: "social exclusion", "job problems", "social phobia caused by stigma", "mental problems", "treatment problems" and “coping mechanisms”.

The findings of this study indicate that HIV-infected women face many challenges in the individual and social field for the social reunion and to reduce their problems, besides individual empowerment, structural and social interventions are also essential. The results of this study can be used in the field of policy-making, the presentation of supportive programs, social services for HIV-infected women and their families.