Adherence to HIV care among HIV-positive pregnant women in Nigeria

Background: HIV among pregnant women poses particular risks to their family, offspring and health workers at the time of delivery. Aims: To determine the level of adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-positive pregnant women in an HIV/AIDS treatment centre in Ibadan, Nigeria and, to identify factors influencing adherence. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was employed among 66 HIV-positive pregnant women attending an HIV clinic at Adeoyo Maternity Health Centre, Ibadan, Nigeria. Findings: Results showed that 47% of the HIV-positive pregnant women adhered to their drug regimen, while 53% did not. Among the non-adherent women, forgetfulness (16.4%), unfavourable work schedule (15.2%) and side effects (12.1%) were the common factors reported for missing drugs. Conclusions: The study concluded that the level of adherence to antiretroviral medications among HIV-positive pregnant women was considerably low.