The current state of qualitative research on sexual functioning with HIV in developed nations: a thematic synthesis

The life expectancy of HIV-positive and HIV-negative people is approaching parity. Therefore, quality of life concerns, such as sexual functioning, are increasingly important in HIV care and support. This thematic synthesis is the first of its kind to describe the current state of qualitative research on sexual functioning with HIV conducted in developed countries. A systematic search of key databases identified 15 peer-reviewed qualitative studies that met inclusion criteria. The synthesis revealed that qualitative research on the impact of HIV on sexual functioning, including the impact on desire, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction, is limited. Findings revolved around the following themes: (i) disclosure of HIV status, (ii) changes in the experience of sex, (iii) celibacy: short-term or sustained, and (iv) condom use of HIV-positive people. Future research into sexual functioning with HIV is required, taking account of contemporary understandings of the risk of transmission in the context of undetectable viral load.