Relationship power and HIV sero-status: an analysis of their relationship among low-income urban Zimbabwean women, during the period May-Septermber 2011
Date
2015
Authors
Rwafa, Teurai
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Abstract
In Zimbabwe, HIV prevalence is higher among women than men of
reproductive age- 18% vs. 12%. Gender power imbalances exist in our societies and result in
relationship power imbalances; which increase women’s vulnerability to HIV. The aim of this
study was to determine the correlation between relationship power and HIV sero-status
among low-income urban Zimbabwean women attending post-natal care clinics.
Methodology: A secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional survey conducted among 2 042
women aged 15-49 years, attending six low-income urban clinics in Harare in 2011. HIV
results were based on rapid HIV diagnostic tests conducted during ANC. Shona intervieweradministered
structured-questionnaires were used to collect data. This secondary analysis
was limited to women with a known HIV status (n= 1 951). Multivariable logistic regression
analyses were performed.
Results: The study population mean age of the 26 years (SD=5.8). HIV prevalence was 14.6%
(n=299). Having a partner who ever refused use of any family planning method was
associated with the women’s HIV status (aOR 1.75, 95% CI 1.10-2.78). A non-significant
association was found between relationship control by the male partner and women’s HIV
status after adjusting for other factors.
Conclusion: Although there were patterns of high male partner control in intimate
relationships, not all women were without agency. Our study provides further evidence that
male dominance in intimate relationships increases women’s vulnerability to HIV. HIV
prevention programmes, interventions and policies should address gender issues to help
curb this disproportionate pandemic among the woman sub-population.
Description
Research Report submitted to the School of Public Health
University of the Witwatersrand,
Degree of Master of Public Health
25 May 2015