[Living with the difference: the impact of serodiscordance on the affective and sexual life of HIV/AIDS patients]

Rev Esc Enferm USP. 2010 Sep;44(3):759-65. doi: 10.1590/s0080-62342010000300030.
[Article in Portuguese]

Abstract

The purpose of this descriptive-exploratory qualitative study was to describe and analyze the impact of serodiscordance on the affective-sexual life of HIV/AIDS patients who have HIV seronegative heterosexual partners. Eleven HIV/AIDS carriers in outpatient clinic follow-up were interviewed, in a reference university-hospital in the state of São Paulo. Data were collected through recorded individual interviews and analyzed according to Prose analysis. Living with HIV/AIDS serodiscordance implies these couples have to deal with several intimacy-related difficulties, due to the possibility of HIV transmission to the seronegative partner. This has a negative effect on serodiscordant partners, reflecting in changes in human sexual response, which could lead to sexual abstinence. Interdisciplinary care should be provided to HIV/AIDS carriers and their partners, thus providing comprehensive care regarding their sexuality and difficulties caused by serodiscordance.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / psychology
  • HIV Seronegativity*
  • HIV Seropositivity / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Love*
  • Sexual Partners*
  • Sexuality*