Violence against women precipitated by HIV infection

Fear of violence is an undermining factor in terms of seeking treatment. Women may hesitate to be tested for HIV or fail to return for the results because they are afraid that disclosing their HIV-positive status may result in physical violence, expulsion from their home or social ostracism. Studies from many countries, especially from sub-Saharan Africa, have found these fears to be well founded. Anecdotal evidence based on stories by women both emotionally and physically abused upon disclosure, reported by the media and related in other settings, further attest to this reality for many women.

In Tanzania, a UNAIDS study of voluntary counselling and testing services in the capital found that only 57 per cent of women who tested HIV-positive reported receiving support and understanding from partners. In Botswana women have admitted to health professionals that they are afraid of their partner's reaction if he finds out they are HIV-positive. That fear has kept them from being tested, from returning for their results if they are tested, from participating in Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) and treatment programmes, and for those who agree to be treated, from adhering to the regimen because they are trying to hide their pills.