Getting tested during pregnancy

Unlike in other provinces, AIDS PEI has an “opt-in” system for testing during pregnancy. This means you need to give your consent before being tested for HIV.

You should get tested for HIV during pregnancy; this is for your protection as well as that of your child. When you take HIV medication during pregnancy, it significantly reduces the chance of your child becoming HIV positive.

However, you should agree to testing with informed consent – this means you have all the information from your health care provider to properly consent to testing. As well, proper and pre and post-test counseling should ensure so you know:

• What you are being tested for.
• Why you are being tested.
• How the test is done.
• What is the impact of a positive test result.
• What will be required if you test positive.
• Information on safer-sex and contraception if you test negative or positive.

If you are pregnant, remember that no health care provider can force you to be tested. You have the right to control your health and to be informed of various processes that will occur, including tests on your fetus.

You can have a completely healthy pregnancy if you are HIV positive.