Resum
An HIV diagnosis may be associated with severe emotional and psychological distress, which can contribute to delays in care or
poor self-management. Few studies have explored the emotional, psychological, and psychosocial impacts of an HIV diagnosis on
women in low-resource settings. We conducted in-depth interviews with 30 women living with HIV in the Dominican Republic.
Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the biographical disruption framework. Three disruption phases
emerged (impacts of a diagnosis, postdiagnosis turning points, and integration). Nearly all respondents described the news as
deeply distressful and feelings of depression and loss of self-worth were common. Several reported struggling with the decision to
disclose—worrying about stigma. Postdiagnosis turning points consisted of a focus on survival and motherhood; social support
(family members, friends, HIV community) promoted integration. The findings suggest a need for psychological resources and
social support interventions to mitigate the negative impacts of an HIV diagnosis.