Document 0721
 DOCN  M9550721
 TI    Why do antenatal attenders decide to have the HIV antibody test?
 DT    9505
 AU    Meadows J; Catalan J; Psychological Medicine Unit, Charing Cross and
       Westminster; Medical School, Chelsea.
 SO    Int J STD AIDS. 1994 Nov-Dec;5(6):400-4. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE
       MED/95151861
 AB    The aim of the study was to investigate factors influencing the
       parturient woman's decision to accept or decline the HIV antibody test
       in the antenatal clinic. Eighty-eight women attending an antenatal
       clinic, in a central London hospital, for an appointment at 28-32 weeks
       of pregnancy were given a structured face to face interview. Results
       indicated that 36% (n = 32) had elected to be tested. Reasons for
       declining included assumption of no risk, being in a stable
       relationship, not wanting to think about HIV when pregnant and not
       wanting to know if HIV positive. Reasons for accepting included fears
       for health of the baby and fears for own health. 52% (n = 46) had
       discussed the test with their partner, most of whom had agreed with the
       woman's decision or left the decision to her. Only 31% of the women were
       aware they had been automatically tested for syphilis. Knowledge about
       vertical transmission was poor. Anxiety levels of those tested and those
       not tested were not significantly different nor did either group differ
       over time. The groups did not differ on demographic variables,
       transmission knowledge or perceived likelihood of infection. Most women
       elected not to be tested and reasons around the decision are very
       individualistic and varied. HIV testing does not appear to cause anxiety
       when it is offered on a voluntary basis. Knowledge of routine testing
       and of vertical transmission is poor and should be the focus of health
       education intervention.
 DE    Adolescence  Adult  AIDS Serodiagnosis/*PSYCHOLOGY  Comparative Study
       Disease Transmission, Vertical  Female  Human  HIV
       Infections/TRANSMISSION  Interview, Psychological  London  Pregnancy
       *Prenatal Care  JOURNAL ARTICLE

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).