Pregnant women's uptake of ANC HIV testing in rural area of Tangerang Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

ANC HIV testing is an entry point for prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV transmission, however, the uptake of this testing remains low in Indonesia, such as in Tangerang regency. This research explores the interaction, symbolic meaning, and the interpretation of the symbolic meaning of ANC HIV testing among pregnant women, their husbands, and health care providers to improve ANC HIV testing. This study is conducted in Tangerang regency with an in-depth interview of 16 pregnant women, 16 husbands, and 5 midwives. The results revealed that there were differences in interaction between pregnant women with midwives and their husbands that influenced their decision to uptake ANC HIV testing. The symbolic meaning of ANC HIV testing as the result of their interactions was more positive among the women who did uptake ANC HIV testing. However, in general, the women were still afraid to bring up the discussion of sensitive topics like HIV with their husbands for fear of being judged to be unfaithful or of doing dirty (sexually inappropriate) things. Pregnant mothers need to be communicated with about the benefit of ANC HIV testing to manage their fears about going for HIV testing. Husbands need to be more involved in the ANC HIV testing process. Midwives need to receive training in counseling to improve skills in performing ANC HIV testing with more patient-oriented focus and consented care services. The information and education about ANC HIV testing have to be integrated within the cultural, social, and religious context in Tangerang regency.