Enwereji Ezinna Ezinne
Abia State University, Nigeria
Title: Strategies necessary to assist HIV positive women (PLWHA) experiencing domestic violence in Abia State
Biography
Biography: Enwereji Ezinna Ezinne
Abstract
Introduction: Partner notification is encouraged for safer sex practices and minimized HIV infection, but PLWHA report violence after disclosure. Most surveys focusing on violence HIV and AIDS have been used to assist women who experience violence but such surveys have some disadvantages. They concentrate on identifying women with violence but do not encourage the participation of such women in planning feasible interventions to reduce violence. The aim of study is to use participatory reservation approach (PRA) to involve PLWHA to identify interventions necessary to reduce domestic violence against them. Using PRA will show cost effective and efficient methods of reducing violence as well as ensuring sustainability of program.
Method: PRA was used to identify PLWHA who have experienced domestic violence. Data were collected through 12 focus group discussions and interview guides. A total sample of 96 PLWHA in network participated in the study. The perceptions of PLWHA on likely strategies for reducing violence were sought based on their local experiences. Data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively using simple percentages.
Results: Domestic violence was experienced by both sexes and perceived from different experiences including mutual exclusion or restriction from participating in family or community functions after disclosure. Out of 45 (46.9%) PLWHA that disclosed their status, 36 (40%) experienced violence. Interventions suggested were theater programs in public places, training male peer groups, encouraging gender equity and allowing women express their problems openly and stakeholders organizing workshops on gender inequity.
Conclusions: Result suggests that PRA is an efficient and cost effective method for sustaining interventions for reducing violence according to PLWHA perceptions. Training programs on risks of violence on HIV infection for PLWHA is need since both sexes experienced violence.