Abstract
Background Ethiopia is one of the nations which has an enormous burden of intimate partner violence (IPV), and where it is usually difficult to talk about HIV separately from IPV.Objectives This research aimed to explore the lived experience of IPV against women using antiretroviral therapy (ART) and other outpatient services in Wolaita Zone, EthiopiaMethods We used an Interpretive (hermeneutic) Phenomenological Analysis design among purposely selected adult women aged 18-49 years. A total of 43 women involved in this study, of whom 30 were using ART, and 13 women were using other health services. We used an in-depth interview and focus group discussions until data saturation, while conscious of the need to maintain the scientific rigor, dependability, and credibility relating to this sensitive subject. The data were transcribed verbatim and translated into English. We read the transcripts repeatedly to understand the content. We used NVivo 11 software to assist with data organization, and also we used the framework analysis method.Results We identified five themes from this analysis, namely: “women's terrifying experiences of violence,” “the effects of violence on their health,” “support/lack of support /partner’s controlling behaviors,” “women’s feelings about the available services,” and “IPV prevention strategies from the perspective of women.” Interviewees described their violent experiences which included wife-beating, being stigmatized in front of others, having material thrown at the woman’s face, wife’s hand and teeth were broken, forced sex, restriction of movement, name-calling, threats to hurt, being insulted, being left alone, and the withdrawal of finances. The negative health impacts reported included abortion, infection with HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, discrimination, disability, fear, divorce, child’s death, and depression. The disclosure of HIV test information resulted in violence. Inappropriate punishment of the perpetrator and the lack of a supportive women’s network to avert IPV were perceived as legal limitations by the women.Conclusions IPV is a considerable health burden, varying in its presentation and its negative impact on women’s health and well being. Improved laws should provide justice for all victims. Establishing a women’s network to assist should be emphasized. Unwise HIV test result disclosure leads to IPV; hence HIV disclosure should be facilitated through health care providers.
Quality of life and risk of feminicide in women victims of intimate partner violence in Campinas
