Publications

Pregnant women living with HIV (WLWH) in Uganda face multifaceted challenges that span medical, psychosocial, structural, and cultural domains. Despite advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) and prevention of motherto-child transmission (PMTCT) programs, barriers such as stigma, discrimination, disclosure fears, intimate partner violence, and limited healthcare infrastructure persist. This review explores the lived experiences of WLWH during pregnancy, emphasizing the interplay between socio-cultural dynamics and healthcare engagement. It identifies critical obstacles, including poor integration of services, inadequate counseling, and socio-economic hardships that undermine adherence and health outcomes. The coping strategies and support networks women employ highlight resilience but also the need for systemic improvements. Policy and programmatic recommendations stress enhancing confidentiality, respectful care, and counseling quality, especially for late antenatal care attendees. Integrating HIV, family planning, and maternal health services, addressing intimate partner violence through multisectoral approaches, and expanding psychosocial support are vital. Tailored adolescent-friendly interventions are also essential. A holistic, person-centered approach that addresses medical, social, and structural factors is imperative to improve maternal and child health outcomes among WLWH in Uganda.