Self-care activities of women infected with human immunodeficiency virus.

The article describes a qualitative focus group study exploring the self-care activities undertaken by women testing positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to promote and maintain their health. The sample included 27 women who participated in one of four focus group sessions. Participants represented women from both rural and urban settings in the South. Subjects talked about and described the ways in which they took care of themselves. Content analysis was used to code the data and to determine major categories of activities. Seven categories were identified: special dietary and nutrition practices, choosing not to use medically prescribed therapies, spiritual reliance and rituals, staying active, cognitive strategies, self-education, and adopting healthy life styles. These findings support the value of developing a holistic approach to health care of women infected with HIV.