What tests are done to detect HIV during pregnancy?
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Hello, I heard that it is recommended to take an HIV test during pregnancy. I am 26 years old female. I am 4 months pregnant. I heard the HIV virus can be transmitted to babies during pregnancy and through breastfeeding also I have been thinking about taking an HIV test. Should I take HIV test? What will happen during tests and what tests are done to detect HIV during pregnancy?
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@unnati Hello, All women are tested for HIV during pregnancy or before thinking of getting pregnant. A pregnant person with HIV who is not treated can pass the virus to an unborn baby with the treatment of passing HIV to the baby are very low. Testing for HIV in pregnancy first-line tests screens the blood or saliva for antibodies and antigens these are proteins in the blood that fight infection. During pregnancy, testing is done via blood test or saliva screening. You can also talk to your doctor. Thanks.