Should You Test Yourself for HIV Before You Start a Family?

HIV infected parents can have HIV negative babies if they are tested and begin treatment as soon as they can. An HIV infected mother can pass the virus to her child during pregnancy, at the time of birth or when breast feeding, but medical treatment will minimize the chances of this occurring. Ideally positive HIV women should start therapy before pregnancy and continue during this period to reduce the concentration of the virus in her blood. The likelihood of having a healthy baby is improved greatly is the mother and father is aware of their situation and starts receiving antiviral therapy and counseling.

Note: This article is not medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your specific condition.