Spine reads: Experience of the pregnant HIV woman

Thesis(MSN)--Sacred Heart University, 1996

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to describe the essential meanings, qualities, and structure of the lived experience of the women who were pregnant and HIV seropositive. Four women were selected who were aware of their HIV seropositive status and had been pregnant or who were pregnant at the time of the research. Data were generated using unstructured, in-depth, face to face interviews. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's (1978) method of phenomenology. The result revealed five essential themes that add to the limited knowledge base that generates new meaning of the nature and essence of the experience of being pregnant with the knowledge of HIV seropositivity. These themes includes anticipation, changing, support, faith, and self-care. A description of the phenomenon of the lived experience of the HIV seropositive pregnant women was provided. Implications for these findings include better understanding of the experience of women who are HIV-positive and pregnant. Areas for intervention are outlined and ideas for future nursing research is provided.