Beyond an HIV Diagnosis: The Unheard Lived Experiences of Women Living with HIV in Gauteng Province, South Africa

Abstract Background Globally, over 37 million individuals are infected with HIV, with women disproportionately affected. Women living with HIV (WLHIV) account for about 53% of all people living with HIV (PLHIV). This is due to factors like gender-based violence, stigma, socio-economic challenges, low economic status and gender disparities. Purpose This study explored the unheard lived experiences of WLHIV in coping with an HIV-positive diagnosis. Methods This study utilised a qualitative phenomenological design with 15 women living with HIV (WLHIV) from the Central Chronic Medication Dispensing and Distribution Programme (CCMDD) at the Winnie Mandela Clinic in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng Province, South Africa. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using Tesch's approach, resulting in two main themes and six subthemes. The study ensured data accuracy and reliability through trustworthiness measures and adhered to ethical considerations throughout the research. Results The study found that women living with HIV (WLHIV) face various challenges, including denial of their HIV status, blame, and lifestyle changes. Key difficulties include stigma, rejection, trust issues, and financial hardships. These negative influences can lead to poor treatment adherence and an increased risk of HIV-related deaths. Conclusions and implications The contributions of this study will be diverse, providing significant benefits to academic, policy, and clinical fields. It is anticipated that the findings will assist in creating social work and public health interventions to support individuals facing these challenges and empower newly diagnosed women with HIV by equipping them with the skills to navigate these difficult experiences.