“We Take Care of Our Young, No Matter What,” Experiences of Engagement in HIV Care Among Black Mothers Parenting Dependent Children in Southwestern Pennsylvania: A Retrospective Descriptive Qualitative Study

Abstract

Abstract This retrospective descriptive study sought to explore the lived experiences of Black mothers with HIV navigating HIV medical care while parenting dependent children. Six themes were generated from the semi-structured interviews conducted with mothers (N = 9) related to motherhood, interactions with health care systems and providers, coping, social support, HIV self-management, and HIV prevention. Findings suggested that supportive interpersonal relationships with HIV health care providers, HIV nondisclosure to family and friends, and social network support, inclusive of health care providers, were protective factors in achieving optimal treatment adherence and viral suppression. Findings may inform interventions for improving social support and reducing stigma in HIV care for Black mothers with HIV who are parenting dependent children.