Correlates of HIV stigma in HIV-positive women

Abstract

We examined the variables associated with HIV stigma in HIV-positive women currently living in Ontario, Canada. Based on previous literature, we predicted that variables of social marginalization (e.g., ethnicity, income, education), medical variables (e.g., higher CD4 count, lower viral load), and increased psychological distress would be associated with higher perceived HIV stigma among HIV-positive women. One hundred fifty-nine HIV-positive women between the ages of 18 and 52 in Ontario completed self-report measures of the aforementioned variables. Women were recruited through 28 AIDS service organizations, eight HIV clinics, and two community health centers. In multiple regression analyses, for women born in Canada, lower educational level and higher anxiety were associated with higher HIV stigma. For women born outside of Canada, having been judged by a physician in Canada for trying to become pregnant was associated with higher HIV stigma. For HIV-positive women born outside of Canada, negative judgment by a physician regarding intentions to become pregnant should be addressed to reduce perceived HIV stigma and vice versa. Health care providers should be trained in the provision of sensitive and effective health care for women living with HIV, especially when providing reproductive health care.

Impact of Internalized Stigma on HIV Prevention Behaviors Among HIV-Infected Individuals Seeking HIV Care in Kenya

“…Depression may increase PLWHA perception of HIV stigma especially when such an individual suffers from psychological issues likely to interfere with their perception of self. [36][37][38] Table 3. HIV Medication Adherence …”

“…PHQ-9 34,35 was utilized to measure depressive symptoms because stigma is a constellation of psychological distress symptoms, which may mediate the impact of HIV stigma on likelihood of engaging in HIV prevention behaviors. 36 Depression is documented to have an association with a diagnosis of HIV infection and may increase PLWHA perception of HIV stigma.…”

High prevalence of unintended pregnancies in HIV‐positive women of reproductive age in Ontario, Canada: a retrospective study

“…It may be useful to explore this further to determine if the discrepancy between childbirths before and after HIV diagnosis is primarily explained by age and having reached one's parental goals, or whether living with HIV and its accompanying issues, such as stigmas [29], play a role in pregnancy decision making.…”

Are women a different group of HIV-infected individuals?

“…Depression is associated with poor health, greater health service utilization, and adverse affects on quality of life and social support. Depressive symptoms are associated with poor adherence to HIV medication (Wagner et al 2010), HIV disease progression (Miller et al 2006), poor social support, and poor quality of life. Psychological stress plays an important role in the development of depressive symptoms (St. Lawrence et al 2008).…”