Abstract

A phenomenological study was conducted to help understand the lived experience of women with HIV, specifically in regards to the role of meaning and spirituality. Eight HIV positive women participated in a phenomenological interview, and thematic analysis was used to extract relevant themes from their statements. The results showed that spirituality and meaning play an important role in coping with HIV. Many of the women demonstrated an acceptance of HIV and of suffering, and found that they were able to learn through their experiences. They also discussed beliefs that everything has meaning and having a sense of purpose in life. For many women, helping others and reaching out was an important aspect of their sense of meaning and purpose. Many women also talked about the positive effects of spirituality and prayer on emotions, behaviour and health. Some women also talked about negative experiences of spirituality and religion, often related to religious upbringing in childhood. Since seven out of eight women were of First Nations descent, many women discussed experiences of and the importance of First Nations culture and spirituality. Many women also had a personal approach to believing in a transcendental, spiritual reality, and integrated various spiritual and religious beliefs. The women also talked about the negative impact of HIV, health implications, and the role of social support. This study adds to the growing body of research on spirituality in coping with HIV, as well as the role of meaning and existential coping in HIV positive women.