The Experiences of HIV-Positive Women Living in an African Village

Abstract

Kenya has approximately 1.4 million adults infected with HIV/AIDS, with a national prevalence rate of approximately 7.4%. The majority of the Kenyan people have not participated in a Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) program and do not know their HIV status. This increases the likelihood of infecting others and spreading the disease. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore HIV-positive women’s experiences and perceptions about VCT programs. In-depth interviews were conducted with 29 rural women and 6 themes emerged: Living in fear, making the decision to be tested, the journey toward acceptance, changing behavior, planning for the future, and encouraging others to be tested. VCT programs are crucial in attaining goals related to the prevention and management of AIDS. By exploring these women’s experiences and perceptions, issues concerning AIDS and the acceptance and use of VCT may be better understood.