HIV and pregnancy
Elation and devastation are two opposite emotions that are likely heightened when someone’s HIV status is told to him or her. The knowledge of an individual’s HIV status is important to their present and future health considerations. Women, especially during their childbearing years, should know their HIV status, as no one is exempt from being HIV positive. The spread of HIV is a worldwide concern. The HIV virus is not casually transmitted but over the past three years about 17 million people have become infected, bringing the total number to about 63 million since the outbreak of this virus. ... I believe all pregnant women should routinely be screened for the HIV virus. ... Medications are available to reduce the chance of transmission if taken early in the pregnancy. ... If a woman is tested routinely during her prenatal visit she will have time to learn her HIV status and make informed decisions concerning the health of her unborn child early in her pregnancy. Stine points out that, “About 99% of new pediatric AIDS cases received the virus from their HIV-infected mothers. […] Perinatal HIV infection without anti-HIV drug intervention in the United States is about 25%; with drug intervention it is about 8%. ... ELISA, is a blood test that screens for HIV antibodies. ... These figures are small considering that, “According to the Pediatric AIDS foundation, about $350 million a year could be saved by testing women for HIV. The average hospital bill for a baby born infected with HIV is $35, 000 annually for the 8 to 10 years the child lives” (Stine 404).