Implementation of guidelines for HIV counseling and voluntary HIV testing of pregnant women

Objectives. This study assessed HIV counseling and testing among pregnant w omen. Methods. A survey was administered to 9115 women who gave birth at 66 Chica go-area hospitals in 1997 and 1998. Results. Fifty-eight percent of the women received HIV counseling, and 65% were offered testing. Fifty-six percent were tested for HIV. Among the wome n tested, 88% were given their test result. Women were more likely to be te sted if they received HIV counseling and were more likely to be offered tes ting if they received such counseling. Conclusions. Rates of HIV counseling for, and offers of testing to, pregnan t women need to be increased.