Knowledge about HIV infection and acceptability of HIV testing among women delivered in Podkarpackie Province, Poland

Abstract

Objective To assess the knowledge of pregnant Polish women regarding the risk of perinatal HIV transmission, the ways to reduce this risk, and the importance of HIV testing in pregnancy, as well as their willingness to be tested for HIV. Methods A multicenter survey was conducted with 2123 pregnant women from Podkarpackie Province using a 4-part questionnaire. Results Only 15.4% of the women, mainly those with higher education, correctly assessed the risk of perinatal HIV transmission; 61.9% showed adequate knowledge of perinatal HIV transmission, mainly older, well-educated, multiparas residing in towns; and 81.1% declared a willingness to undergo HIV testing, mainly well-educated primigravidas in the 26 to 30 years age group residing in towns. Conclusion These pregnant women from Poland, where prenatal HIV testing is rarely done, showed a limited knowledge of perinatal HIV transmission but a high willingness to undergo HIV testing.