Compreendendo a sexualidade de indivíduos portadores de HIV-1

The objective of the present investigation was to identify the sexual difficulties experienced by persons in an HIV-1 crisis. This is a study of a descriptive nature based on the Theory of Crisis. The sample consisted of 5 patients with HIV-1 followed up clinically in a town in the hinterland of the state of São Paulo. Semistructured interviews were tape recorded and transcribed. Data were analyzed according to MEIHY (1996) and BARDIN (1994). We conclude that the subjects presented a negative adaptation with respect to sexual, social and emotional difficulties. The results indicate the need for effective nursing interventions with persons in an HIV-1 crisis.