Women living with aids and the family health program professionals: disclosing the diagnosis

Abstract

This qualitative study was carried out with women living with HIV/AIDS cared by a specialized STD/AIDS service and registered in a Family Health Program (FHP) unit. The purpose was to identify the motivations of women living with HIV/AIDS to provide private information to the FHP team. The study was performed using semi-structured interviews, analyzed with the bioethics theoretical framework. It was verified that women disclose the diagnosis to the FHP team when: the HIV/AIDS diagnosis was made in the unit; they feel there is better treatment for being HIV positive; they are bond as family members; there is trust; and women feel that they do not feel pity of them. Women so not disclose when: the professional's attitude produces fear and unreliability; they think that the FHP takes care of bedridden patients; they do not trust by fearing secret disclosure; and they already have all the care needed in the SCS.