Motivations, benefits, and barriers to the use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis based on the health belief model

Abstract

Objective: to understand the motivations, benefits, and barriers to the use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Method: a qualitative study grounded on the Health Belief Model. Sixteen people using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis were followed up at two Testing and Counseling Centers in a large municipality in the interior of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Data were collected through individual audio-recorded interviews. Data analysis followed Rosenstock’s Health Belief Model and Bardin’s Content Analysis. Results: susceptibility to HIV was influenced by uncertainty about partners’ serology and condom failure. The severity of HIV is perceived as greater due to its incurability. Benefits include greater protection, safety, and well-being. Barriers involve difficulties in access, side effects, and social stigma. Conclusion: the study revealed that the motivation for using Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis was the perception of susceptibility to HIV, the severity of the disease, and benefits such as protection and psychological well-being, while barriers involved difficulties in access, complexity of the clinical protocol, and stigma. Knowing the beliefs and barriers can favor more effective interventions by the health team.