Experiences Of Sexuality Of Bisexual Hiv/Aids Patients (A Phenomenological Study In Madiun Regency)

This research aims to explore the experience of bisexual sexuality who are HIV/AIDS patients in Madiun Regency by using a phenomenological approach. The background of the research is based on the rampant homosexual behavior that has a high risk of HIV/AIDS transmission and there is still stigma and discrimination from the community. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with a number of bisexual informants who had been diagnosed with HIV positive. The results of the study revealed that the bisexual experience was divided into open and closed behavior, where some experienced stigma, discrimination, fear of rejection, and feelings of guilt, while others chose to hide their status to avoid social consequences. Factors that push someone to become bisexual include past trauma, disappointment towards a female partner, a less supportive social environment, and economic pressure. Sexual activity is still carried out by several informants despite knowing their HIV positive status, with some using protection to reduce the risk of transmission. This study confirms that the social stigma attached to the bisexual group of HIV/AIDS patients has a significant impact on their mental health and sexual behavior. Therefore, interventions are needed in the form of health education, routine check-ups, psychological counseling, and strengthening support between community members to reduce the transmission rate of HIV. This finding is expected to be a reference for related parties in designing more effective HIV/AIDS prevention and management programs, especially in high-risk groups such as bisexuals.