Abstract:
This qualitative study aimed to understand the unique psychosocial, healthcare, and
economic dimensions that converged in the lives of young, HIV-positive mothers during
the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). The study combined a qualitative phenomenological
vignette research design and exploratory case studies. The participants (n = 2)
comprised purposefully selected HIV-positive teenage mothers who were pregnant
during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The data were gathered and generated through vignette-guided interviews and
observations. The analysis comprised of crafting vignettes, member checking, and
resonance readings. Subsequently, the findings reveal that the COVID-19 global
pandemic intensified the pre-existing vulnerabilities faced by these young HIV-positive
mothers, exacerbating adversity related to healthcare access, stigma, mental health,
and economic stability. However, the participants also demonstrated remarkable
resourcefulness in navigating these challenges by utilising both formal and informal
support networks. Additionally, the study uncovered critical insights into the necessary
adaptations and innovations in healthcare delivery for this demographic, as
necessitated by the pandemic. The findings strongly suggest the urgent need for tailored
interventions, comprehensive healthcare policies, and targeted support systems to
address the multi-faceted needs of teenage mothers living with HIV, especially in the
context of future public health crises.
