Fertility intentions among people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in the ART era: mixed methods evidence from Nairobi slums

Abstract

Fertility intentions are strong predictors of eventual fertility. Understanding fertility intentions, and consequent reproductive health services needs of people living with HIV/AIDS(PLWHA) is critical in the context of expanding antiretroviral treatment (ART) access. Yet little is known about the fertility intentions of PLWHA in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in general and slum settings in particular. Previous evidence on fertility intentions and HIV/ART in SSA is mixed, as well as being descriptive with little theoretical understanding. This study seeks to answer Two questions: 1. What factors affect fertility intentions among PLWHA? 2. How can our theoretical understanding of fertility intentions of PLWHA in the era of ART be improved?