Reproductive health rights and women with HIV in Thailand.

This paper outlines some of the reproductive health dilemmas facing HIV-infected women in Thailand. It is noted that in terms of reproductive health rights, people living with HIV/AIDS require an approach, which recognizes their multiple needs. Such an initiative will ensure these people of a healthy and satisfying sexual life, informed choices about reproductive decisions, informed screening and treatment for reproductive tract infections, and appropriate confidential counseling services. In addition, it has also been recorded that seropositive women not using effective long-term contraceptives need accessible emergency contraception and abortion services. Moreover, health services need to be able to provide effective screening as well as treatments for common endogenous infections, which may be particular problems for immunocompromised women. Although policies that encourage more integrated reproductive health services have been implemented in the country, the practices of hospitals and health services on these issues remain variable, and dependent upon the attitudes, resources and training of staff. Further research on these matters is recommended.