HIVST in the presence of a partner among fishermen in Western Kenya: A qualitative study

Background: HIV self-testing (HIVST) enables individuals to test privately and can serve as an important tool to mitigate stigma and fear of HIV testing and unintended disclosure, especially among men, who have lower voluntary testing rates than women. Aim: Within an intervention study involving distribution of HIVST kits by fishermen to their peers [NCT 04772469], we explore the experiences and the motivations of men who chose to self-test for HIV in the presence of their female partners. Method: We conducted in-depth interviews (n = 32) with fishermen from three fishing communities along Lake Victoria, Kenya. Interviews were conducted at three months post-intervention and explored fishermen’s experiences with HIVST and the context under which they tested. Interviews were analysed using a framework analysis approach. Results: Though they were not prompted by the study to do so, 17 participants described testing for HIV at home in the presence of partners. Fishermen who used HIVST kits in front of partners expressed feelings of comfort and closeness, felt the experience strengthened their relationships, helped garner partner support, and facilitated partner disclosure of their HIV status and subsequent couples’ HIV testing. Conclusion: Building awareness of the benefits of HIVST for promoting knowledge of HIV status, as a starting point for discussions about HIV, and to promote disclosure in relationships, may increase rates of voluntary HIV testing among men.