ABSTRACT
Objectives: Based on a qualitative study conducted in Bulawayo; Zimbabwe; this article examines how the availability of HAART since April 2004 may impact the views and choices of HIV-positive couples on childbearing. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 couples where at least one partner was HIV positive. All respondents were of reproductive age and had or were confronting reproductive and sexual decision-making. Results: HAART seems to have had a profound impact on the subject of childbearing among those who still desire to have children. Where hitherto individuals had only a desire for a child many are now; as a result of the availability of HAART; actively planning to have one. HAART has not only transformed their physical state but it has also transformed mostly what had been desire into intention. The impact; however; has not been uniform. Some respondents still desired to have a child but were not yet convinced about the efficacy of HAART in preventing vertical transmission. Some respondents felt that HAART may have a negative impact on the foetus and as such were against childbearing by HIV-positive people. No respondent indicated that their desire or intention to have a child had been extinguished by the advent of HAART. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the study; HAART seems to have had a differential but nonetheless significant role in the reproductive plans of HIV-positive couples. The study also notes that there is a need to make available complete and unbiased information on HAART; mother-to-child transmission risk (MTCT) and pregnancy to HIV-positive couples so as to enable them to make informed decisions