Post-test counselling for HIV-negative pregnant women

Even though the woman will be very relieved that she has tested negative, you should ensure that she understands:

• How to remain HIV-negative through using safe sex practices.
• The need for later HIV testing if additional risk exposures occur, or if the test was done during the window period of early HIV infection.
• Exclusive breastfeeding for her baby (that is, just breastfeeding, no bottle-feeding or feeding of solid foods before 6 months of age).
• If she becomes HIV-infected during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, the baby has an increased risk of MTCT (see Table 16.1 above).
• The importance of effective family planning and birth spacing. (The Module on Family Planning will teach you all the details of different methods.)