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 Pregnancy and the HIV test

Are all pregnant women tested for HIV?

All pregnant women are urged to have an HIV test, along with other antenatal screening tests. However, you do not have to have a test if you do not want one.

There are major benefits of knowing you are HIV positive during pregnancy. The new combination treatments mean that the chances of a woman with HIV passing it on to her baby can be reduced in different ways. There are special treatments that can be taken during pregnancy, and different options for giving birth. Another way to reduce the risk is not to breastfeed, and there are treatments that can be given to the baby after birth.

If a woman with HIV has a baby, it can take from one to four months to tell whether the baby has the virus. Your doctor or midwife can explain this in more detail.

 

Who gets to know the result?

If you have the test at a clinic, the result is strictly confidential to you and the staff directly concerned with your medical care. Staff will advise you about consulting your GP. Nobody will be told of the result without your permission.

How do I decide if I should have the HIV test?

Talking to a trained counsellor at an NHS sexual health (GUM) clinic will give you the chance to discuss your concerns and can help you decide. The final decision will be left to you. Or you can call the National AIDS Helpline free and in confidence on 0800 567 123.