The experiences of teenage pregnancy during a pandemic by mothers who are HIV-positive

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.