Female daily life of the experience with HIV in self-help group

Abstract

This study aims to understand and explain daily experiences of women who got HIV. It is a documental retrospective study which evaluated records of participation of women in self-help group held in a reference ambulatory for HIV/AIDS in Fortaleza, between 2008 and 2009. Report of 90 groups indicated the participation of 25 women. Speeches and statements recorded during the group activities were analyzed and categorized. Data shows revolt and fear after finding out they were HIV patients. Such impact is softened by family and friends’ support, although feelings of anger addressed to partners are pretty common. As we could find out, women infected with HIV live through negative situations in their everyday lives; thus the self-help group provides them with a space where they find ideas and share solutions for their problems, bringing health care with focus on social and psychological issues, in order to improve daily life quality.