Many pregnant women in Nigeria still do not know their HIV status. Researchers at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) raised this concern. They explained that the problem is worse in rural areas and private hospitals where HIV testing is not common during antenatal care.
Dr. Agatha David, who leads the Child and Adolescent HIV Programme at NIMR, said several reasons cause this gap. Some women attend antenatal care very late, while others rely on traditional birth attendants. Many hospitals also do not offer HIV testing, leaving women at risk.
Success Stories in HIV-Free Deliveries
NIMR has achieved success through its prevention of mother-to-child transmission programme, even with these problems. For more than six years, no baby born has tested positive for HIV. This shows that when women are tested early and get treatment, both mothers and babies can live healthy lives.
Pregnant Women and National Data on HIV
National records show that in 2017, only 42.7% of pregnant women were tested for HIV. This is a small improvement from 32.8% in 2013. Among women who went for antenatal care, about 70.5% received HIV testing.
Testing was more common among women above 24 years, those with higher education, and women living in cities. Poorer women and those in villages were less likely to get tested. This gap shows how women in rural areas face more health risks than those in urban areas.
HIV Prevalence Among Pregnant Women
A review found that about 7.2% of pregnant women in Nigeria are living with HIV. In some regions, this number is as high as 17%. But only 40% of mothers with HIV know their status. This means most pregnant women living with HIV are unaware and may pass it on to their babies.
What Needs to Change
Experts say HIV testing must be expanded, especially in rural areas. More campaigns are needed to encourage pregnant women to start antenatal care early. Communities should also fight stigma so women feel safe to test.
Young people also need attention, since many adolescents and young adults have never been tested. For those who know their status, staying on treatment is very important.
The fact that many pregnant women do not know their HIV status is a serious problem. With early testing, treatment, and awareness, more mothers and babies can live healthy lives. Every effort should be made to protect women and their children.
Conclusion
Pregnant women should receive improved testing and care. Expanding HIV services, tackling stigma, and supporting young mothers will save lives. To learn more about women’s health and empowerment, visit genderpedia.ng/shop.
