Experiences of pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus in the context of HIV/AIDS in the uGu District of KwaZulu-Natal Province. A qualitative study

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an intricate retrovirus that is chronic and incurable. It targets the body's immune system, particularly Cluster of Differentiation 4, a type of white blood cell that helps the immune system fight infections. Pregnant women who are living with HIV/AIDS and have been receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), especially the proteaseinhibitor regimen, are at risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). This regimen was deemed sufficient for controlling HIV levels and lowering the chances of passing it from mother to child. However, it hasmany undesirable effects, such astissue insulin resistance. Pregnant women affected by both HIV and GDM often face increased emotional distress and fear that they might pass the conditions to their unborn babies. There is a notable absence of studies on the lived experiences of HIV-positive pregnant women after being diagnosed with GDM in the UGu District of KwaZulu-Natal to support the study. Understanding these lived experiences is important for informing patient-centered care and improving maternal and child health outcomes. Methods: A total of fifteen (n=15) pregnant women with both HIV and GDM were purposively selected to participate in the study. Semi structured face‒to-face individual interviews were used to collect data from the participants. Thematic data analysis was conducted via the Braun & Clarke method of analysis and ATLAS.ti software. Ethical considerations and trustworthiness were adhered to. Results: Six themes and 11 subthemes arose from the study findings, namely, (1) emotional response – fear and anxiety, acceptance and resilience; (2) support systems – family support, healthcare provider support in health; (3) management strategies – dietary changes and exercise, medication adherence; (4) education and awareness – older-person conditions, need for increased awareness, peer support and group education; (5) coping mechanisms – information-seeking behavior; and (6) healthcare recommendations – nurses as healthcare providers. Conclusion: The findings highlight that pregnant women with GDM and HIV/AIDS experience a stressful pregnancy journey, as they must deal with the fear and anxiety associated with the possible complications of comorbid conditions.