Examining engagement in care of women living with HIV in South India.

HIV seropositive adherence-challenged women, who reported being on ART for at least four months were interviewed. Data on healthcare history, anti-retroviral therapy, clinic visits, doctor communication, disclosure and fear of stigma were collected. Better engagement in care was significantly more likely among older women, ≥ 10 years of education, higher income, HIV status disclosure to family, with higher community stigma fears and fewer healthcare access barriers. To promote retention, women may be encouraged to consider disclosing their HIV serostatus to supportive household members. A variety of possible interventions to overcome the prevalent barriers to care are provided.