Reproduction & Sexual Health in HIV Positive Women - A.J.
Good sexual and reproductive health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being in all matters relating to the reproductive system. It means that people are able to have a satisfying and safe sex life, have the ability to reproduce and have the freedom to decide if, when, and how often to do so.
When I was diagnosed with HIV, I was a young lady, not married and with no children. I thought my dreams of being called a mother had been shut down.I loved children very much, but never thought I would ever have my own considering my HIV status.
When I started my clinic for HIV treatment, I came across a lady who had a small baby on her back and I decided to talk to her. After a lengthy conversation, she told me about her journey with HIV and how she had managed to have 3 children who were HIV negative. She advised me on ART adherence and following doctors advice. I felt motivated and I decided to visit my health care providers for more information and guidance. Through counselling by my health care providers, I realized it was possible to have children even when you are HIV positive.
I took my ART religiously and without fail. I ate a healthy diet, avoided stress and the journey started. Two years later, I became pregnant. I started going to a prenatal clinic early enough, just after I realized I was pregnant. My pregnancy journey was smooth, with little hiccups here and there, such as nausea, vomiting, cravings, etc.
As we speak now, I am a mother of two, 7 years old and 5 years old. They are both HIV negative. With proper treatment, hospital delivery, mother-to-child transmission is preventable.
In my sexuality, I have lived a normal life. I enjoyed safe sex and also protected myself from contracting a different strain of HIV. Also, I have always used protection as not to infect another person. With the use of condoms, I am able to protect myself from getting a sexually transmitted disease.
A.J.’s note: Anyone wondering whether they can still enjoy sex and have children while still HIV positive, I can confirm that it's possible! My advise is to see your healthy care providers for more information and counselling on how to go about it. Practice safe sex, have a hospital delivery and you will can have a HIV negative child and as many as you want.
