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. 2023 Jan;27(1):208-217.
doi: 10.1007/s10461-022-03757-8. Epub 2022 Jun 30.

Influences on PrEP Uptake and Adherence Among South African Women During Periconception and Pregnancy: A Qualitative Analysis

Monique A Wyatt  1   2 , Emily E Pisarski  1 , Yolandie Kriel  3 , Patricia M Smith  4 , Mxolisi Mathenjwa  3 , Manjeetha Jaggernath  3 , Jennifer A Smit  3 , Lynn T Matthews  4 , Norma C Ware  5   6
Affiliations

Influences on PrEP Uptake and Adherence Among South African Women During Periconception and Pregnancy: A Qualitative Analysis

Monique A Wyatt et al. AIDS Behav. 2023 Jan.

Abstract

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective for HIV prevention, yet PrEP delivery to women in periconception and pregnancy has lagged. We report qualitative research from a study evaluating PrEP use as part of safer conception care for 330 South African women. Fifty-two semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 study participants to identify influences on PrEP adherence. Influences were: (1) changing proximity to male partners; (2) COVID-19 lockdown; (3) mobile lifestyle; (4) PrEP-related stigma; (5) disclosure of PrEP use; and (6) pregnancy and motherhood. Data also revealed important contextual information shaping adherence influences for women, including: (a) not living with partners, (b) partners as drivers of pregnancy intention, and (c) feeling at high risk for HIV. Disclosure of PrEP use, addressing stigma, strategies for traveling with pills, and counseling on prevention effective adherence are promising components of PrEP-inclusive HIV prevention interventions for South African women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Keywords: HIV prevention; Periconception; PrEP adherence; Pregnancy; Safer conception; South Africa.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have no conflict of interest to disclose.

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