Beyond denial—women's dilemmas and choices around HIV-testing, treatment and disclosure

Abstract

abstract The experiences of a group of women from the Lower South Coast region of KwaZulu-Natal highlight the ways in which lack of information, fear and denial, gender inequality, stigma and discrimination together maintain a deadly grip on women's efforts to make choices about their reproductive and sexual well-being. Interviews conducted with four women, who are all living openly with HIV and are all involved in counselling or care work, reveal the blame and judgment that even relatively ‘empowered’ women face from partners, family and community members, and from predominantly female health workers. While the women relate their personal histories and discuss the challenges they have overcome as individuals, their stories draw attention to a range of issues that affect many women's sexual and reproductive health rights. Based on their experiences and their encounters with other women who face dilemmas about testing, disclosure and treatment, the interviewees offer insights into the changes that need to happen to secure women's rights to control and care for their bodies.