The Impact of Serodiscordance on the Affective, Sexual and Reproductive Life of HIV Patients Presenting to Imo State University Teaching Hospital (IMSUTH) Orlu, Imo State Nigeria

Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a recognized health issue. As the virus continues to spread and neither a vaccine nor cure exists, its prevention remains the key strategy for curbing the pandemicity of the disease. Serodiscordance refers to people of different HIV serum antibody status, i.e., opposite serum antibody test results for couples or regular sexual partners. Serodiscordant relationships are faced with daily challenges that include but not limited to emotional, preventive health, self-disciple and preconception and reproductive issues. Understanding the effect of serodiscordance on the affect, sexual and reproductive life of affected couples will help develop patient care programs that improve their quality of life. Methods: The study design was cross-sectional to determine the impact of serodiscordance on the affective, sexual and reproductive life of HIV Serodiscordant couples living in Imo state Nigeria. Data collection was through a psychosocial questionnaire, focus groups, and individual interviews. The study was conducted at Imo State University Teaching Hospital (IMSUTH). It is situated in Umuna, a town in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State. Results/Discussion: The required sample size was determined to be serology positive 278 participants. Among 84 patients who had HIV seronegative partners; 33 were male. Out of the 42 patients that used a condom, 39 had told their partners about their status. Fears, guilt feelings can arise, negatively impacting patient sexuality as our study ascertained that a total of 54 (64.3%) patients out of the 84 discordant couples feared that they would transmit the infection to their partner regardless of counseling on best practices to reduce horizontal transmission. Conclusions: Serodiscordance remains a significant contributor to the increased risk of horizontal transmission in sub-Saharan countries. Our study revealed that the impact of serodiscordance goes beyond the spread of disease. It impacts the affect, sexual and reproductive lives of affected couples leading to an overall decrease in patient quality of life. Lastly, future studies on this topic should be back with real-time laboratory screening tests, and couples should be encouraged to participate together to ensure transparency.