Factors Contributing to the Decision by Pregnant Women to be Tested for HIV

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study was to explore and describe the factors that influence the decision by pregnant women to be tested for HIV. This was achieved through a qualitative research study that was exploratory; descriptive and contextual in nature. A sample of 13 pregnant women participated. Data obtained from semi-structured interviews was analysed according to a protocol based on a combination of methods of analysis. The three main themes; namely factors that contribute to the decision by pregnant women to be tested for HIV; factors that contribute to the decision by pregnant women not to be tested for HIV and organisational factors that influence the decision by pregnant women to be tested for HIV; were divided into nine subthemes. Conclusions and recommendations to promote counselling to pregnant women being tested for HIV are provided