Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-1998

Comments

This article has been peer reviewed. It was published in: Infectious diseases in obstetrics and gynecology.

Volume 6, Issue 5, November 1998, Pages 209-213.

The published version is available at DOI: 10.1002/(SICI)1098-0997(1998)6:53.0.CO;2-J. Copyright © Hindawi

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine voluntary human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing rates and factors influencing testing in a private obstetric practice.

METHODS: Antepartum patients were offered HIV testing after completing a self-assessment questionnaire. Perceived risks and demographics were correlated with testing rates.

RESULTS: Overall, 348/600 (58%) women consented to HIV testing. In a univariate analysis, patients with "any" perceived risk(s) were more likely to be tested. Single women and those with an at-risk partner(s) or a history of sexually transmitted disease (STD) were more likely to desire testing. These factors remained independently associated with voluntary testing in a multivariate regression model. No patients tested positive for HIV.

CONCLUSIONS: In our private obstetric practice, 26% of women perceived themselves at risk for HIV infection, and testing rates depended on the various risks identified. A history of STDs or an at-risk sexual partner were stronger predictors of voluntary testing than was marital status. Focused HIV counseling among pregnant women at relatively low risk for infection may be possible.

PubMed ID

9894175

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