Work

Experiences of Fetal or Infant Loss Among Tanzanian Women in HIV Care

Year: 2019

Type: article

Abstract: This study examined the impact of fetal or infant loss on HIV care engagement. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 HIV-infected women who experienced fetal or infant loss while enrolled in prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services in Tanzania. Women attributed the loss to delays in receiving healthcare. Provider communication about the cause of the loss was poor, and women reported substantial distress related to the loss. One-fifth reported gaps in HIV care or disengagement from care following their loss. Loss of a fetus or infant is not uncommon in HIV endemic settings, and should be integrated into PMTCT guidelines.

Source: Journal of Loss and Trauma

DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2019.1600850

Authors: Godfrey A. Kisigo, Preeti Manavalan, Cody Cichowitz, Brandon A. Knettel, Blandina T. Mmbaga, Melissa H. Watt

Institutions: Duke University, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre

Language: English

Topic: HIV/AIDS Research and Interventions

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: Johns Hopkins University, Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Fogarty International Center