Abstract:
AIDS is a sexually-transmitted disease that has many negative impacts in regard to physical,
mental, and social aspects of the community, as well as of the country. In Thailand, the number of
women with AIDS was found to be increasing, while a decreasing number of men with AIDS was
found. This research aimed to study sexual health-related behavior of HIV infected women by using a
qualitative research technique. The data were collected through the use of in-depth interviews with a
sample group of 14 HIV infected women. The project lasted for 8 months and the data analysis was
done by applying the analysis steps developed by Colaizzi. The recorded information was transcribed
word-for-word for analysis and then the data were grouped and interpreted by selecting important
themes in accordance with the research objectives in order to describe 1) the interviewees background;
2) sexual health-related behavior before and after getting HIV infection; 3) their conceptions of sexual
health-related behavior; and 4) acceptance and living with HIV.
The important issues found regarding sexual health of the sampled women during the period
before getting HIV infection were: a lack of knowledge regarding sexual health-related behavior; sanitary
procedures; sexual relation behaviors; ignorance or carelessness regarding sexual behavior; and social
values that determine opinions about having sexual relations. After this group of HIV infected women
had received medical care and additional self-care information, most of them improved with regard to:
knowledge regarding sexual health-related behavior; attention to improving physical health especially
regarding the prevention of complications related to sexual organs; increased possibility of HIV infection.
However, a few of them still have unsafe sex which is related to their negotiation power, lack of
persuasive skills, and concealment of their HIV infection status from their partners.
The results of this study can be used as the basis for modifying the services provided for
HIV infected persons and other patients in a health care center relevant to their needs. Formal and
informal educational institutions should be encouraged to organize sex-education teaching and
learning activities to cover learners sexual rights.