Antenatal HIV Testing in Sub-Saharan Africa During the Implementation of the Millennium Development Goals: A Systematic Review Using the PEN-3 Cultural Model. (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Blackstone, Sarah R.; Nwaozuru, Ucheoma; Iwelunmor, Juliet
• Is Part Of: International quarterly of community health education. Volume 38:Number 2(2018)
• Page Start: 115
• Page End: 128
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: antenatal HIV testing -- sub-Saharan Africa -- PEN-3 cultural model -- perceptions -- enablers; Health education -- Periodicals; Community health services -- Periodicals; 613.071
• DOI: 10.1177/0272684X17749576
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0272-684X

Abstract

This study systematically explored the barriers and facilitators to routine antenatal HIV testing from the perspective of pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa during the implementation period of the Millennium Development Goals. Articles published between 2000 and 2015 were selected after reviewing the title, abstract, and references. Twenty-seven studies published in 11 African countries were eligible for the current study and reviewed. The most common barriers identified include communication with male partners, patient convenience and accessibility, health system and health-care provider issues, fear of disclosure, HIV-related stigma, the burden of other responsibilities at home, and the perception of antenatal care as a "woman's job." Routine testing among pregnant women is crucial for the eradication of infant and child HIV infections. Further understanding the interplay of social and cultural factors, particularly the role of women in intimate relationships and the influence of men on antenatal care seeking behaviors, is necessary to continue the work of the Millennium Development Goals.