Determinants of HIV Testing during Pregnancy among Pregnant Sudanese Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

More than 90% of children who are HIV positive were infected via mother-to-child transmission (MTCT). In Sudan, HIV testing rates during pregnancy remain low. This study aimed to understand the key determinants of HIV testing and their association with pregnant women’s intention to undergo HIV test during pregnancy. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 770 Sudanese pregnant women attending Antenatal care (ANC) visits at maternity hospitals. Based on the flow of antenatal care attendants, the calculated sample size was proportionally allocated to the hospitals. Doctors were most influential regarding pregnant women’s decision to undergo an HIV test during pregnancy (78.8%). Younger women were more likely to be tested. Most participants (68.9%) had high susceptibility with respect to HIV. Nearly half (48.3%) had a positive attitude towards HIV testing. Self-efficacy with regard to HIV testing was high (59.1%). Women with high self-efficacy and perceived susceptibility were more likely to have a greater intention to be tested for HIV. No significant association was found with perceived severity and stigma. Our study shows that the intention to undergo HIV testing among pregnant women is influenced by doctors and associated with self-efficacy and perceived susceptibility, which are important avenues for future intervention efforts.