Rapid HIV testing of women during labour delivers fast and accurate results of HIV status

Abstract

QuestionIs rapid HIV testing feasible and acceptable among women during labour?Study designProspective cohort study.Main resultsAt 2 years, 4894 women in labour with undocumented HIV status had accepted HIV testing (84%). Acceptance was associated with younger age, Hispanic ethnicity, time of admission, lack of prenatal care and gestation of less than 32 weeks (data not shown). The sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of rapid HIV testing were significantly greater than enzyme immunoassay (see Results Table). The median time from sample collection to notification of HIV status was significantly faster for the rapid HIV test than enzyme immunoassay (rapid ν EIA: 66 minutes ν 28 hours, p<0.01).Authors’ conclusionsHIV testing is accepted by most women in labour who have undocumented HIV status. The rapid HIV test is a fast and accurate method for carrying out HIV testing during labour. It allows women infected with HIV immediate access to antiretroviral prophylaxis, decreasing the chances of HIV transmission to the newborn.