Exploring barriers to antiretroviral therapy adherence among pregnant women: A scoping literature review

BACKGROUND: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is one of the most effective ways of preventing HIV-related maternal mortality. However, the rates of retention in care and long-term adherence remain extremely low. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore barriers to antiretroviral therapy adherence among pregnant women. SEARCH STRATEGY: The search for articles was conducted using EBSCO Host, PubMed, Google scholar, and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). SELECTION CRITERIA: The studies included were conducted between 2000 and 2020 and covered barriers to antiretroviral therapy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Data was collected from 8 selected articles and analyzed using Arksey and O’Malley five stages framework. MAIN RESULTS: Barriers to antiretroviral therapy adherence included side effects of the therapy and financial constraints limiting access to food, transport, and medication. Other barriers included cultural and religious factors, lack of spouse support, stigma, and discrimination. CONCLUSION: There is need to support pregnant women undergoing antiretroviral therapy to mitigate barriers associated with the uptake of the therapy.

• Epidemiology and Determinants of Health
  • Determinants of Health
• Determinants of Health
  • Food security
  • Income
  • Social support
  • Health services
  • Stigma/discrimination
• Population(s)
  • Women
  • General HIV+ population
• Prevention, Engagement and Care Cascade
  • Engagement and Care Cascade
• Engagement and Care Cascade
  • Treatment