Study on HIV+ Women's Symptoms and Medication Adherence During Menstrual Cycle
Author Information
Author(s): Patel Pinaki N., Grimes Richard M.
Primary Institution: University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Hypothesis
Does the menstrual cycle affect symptoms and adherence to antiretroviral therapy in HIV+ women?
Conclusion
The study found that certain symptoms associated with both the menstrual cycle and antiretroviral therapy may impact adherence, but overall adherence rates remained high.
Supporting Evidence
- Women reported more bloating and cramps during menstrual weeks.
- Feeling sad or depressed was linked to lower adherence.
- Adherence was slightly lower during menstrual weeks compared to other weeks.
Takeaway
This study looked at how women's periods might make them feel worse and affect their ability to take their HIV medicine. It found that many women still took their medicine regularly.
Methodology
Interviews were conducted weekly for 12 weeks with HIV+ women on HAART to assess symptoms and medication adherence.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported adherence and the influence of weekly reminders on medication-taking behavior.
Limitations
The small sample size limited the ability to generalize findings and examine the effects of specific HAART regimens.
Participant Demographics
The sample consisted of 75.9% African-American, 18.5% Hispanic, and 5.5% Anglo women, with a mean age of 36.9 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = .01 for feeling sad or depressed associated with nonadherence.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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