Sex after ART: sexual partnerships established by HIV-infected persons taking anti-retroviral therapy in Eastern Uganda

Cult Health Sex. 2009 Oct;11(7):703-16. doi: 10.1080/13691050903003897.

Abstract

This paper explores the social contexts that influence the formation and nature of sexual partnerships among people on anti-retroviral therapy (ART). We draw on the findings of a qualitative, longitudinal study of 70 people (36 women and 34 men) who have been participating in a home-based ART programme for over three years in Eastern Uganda. Since initiating ART, 32 (18 men and 14 women) participants reported having had a new partner. Five participants (4 men and 1 woman) renewed relationships with spouses with whom they had been prior to starting ART. Overall, 37 of the 70 participants had had a sexual partner after starting ART. Companionship, material support, social and cultural norms, as well as a desire for sex and children, are drivers of new relationships. The opportunity that ART brings for people to get on with their lives brings with it a reinstatement into a social world that places a value on marriage and child-bearing. The sexual rights of those living with HIV and on ART need to be taken seriously and safer sex facilitated.

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / epidemiology*
  • Adult
  • Anti-Retroviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Catchment Area, Health
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy*
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology*
  • Health Behavior
  • Homosexuality, Male / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Social Support
  • Uganda / epidemiology
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-Retroviral Agents