Women's attitudes and lived experiences with the use of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis

This study aimed to examine the attitudes women have towards the use of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis for the prevention. The study objectives were to identify the factors that influence current attitudes towards pre-exposure prophylaxis, to identify community variables that may encourage or constrain the uptake of PrEP, and to identify and recommend necessary interventions and measures to counteract any prevailing negative attitudes towards PrEP. Qualitative methods were used to gather information from women in focus group discussions and key informants. Data from both key informants and focus group discussions were manually analysed using thematic analysis. Findings indicated that women believed that PrEP empowers them to take control of their health without relying on the faithfulness of the male partner, the ability to have HIV-negative babies, and the reduction of domestic conflicts due to fights over infidelity. On the other hand, PrEP was thought to encourage promiscuity since people would not be scared of HIV and also cause conflict when the partner is not supportive. Based on the findings, the study recommends increased public sensitisation on PrEP availability, access points, and efficacy. Involvement of all community members in sensitisation will help reduce the stigma attached to PrEP.