Test for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B at the first antenatal visit and use prevention services when needed
Ask for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B testing at the first visit. A positive result does not mean nothing can be done. China's program provides prevention and treatment services to reduce transmission from mother to baby.
What it takes
China's prevention-of-mother-to-child-transmission program provides free testing.
What you may gain
The 2020 national work specifications require information and appropriate, standardized free testing in early pregnancy or at the first antenatal visit, followed by counseling or referral according to the results. Article 44 of China's Regulations on AIDS Prevention and Treatment requires free treatment and counseling to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission for pregnant and postpartum women with HIV. Article 43 requires prevention, treatment, postpartum visits, and infant follow-up and testing. A newborn whose mother is hepatitis B surface-antigen positive needs hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin at birth; see chapter 20, entry 2.
Context & considerations
Early testing matters because prevention and treatment take time. Article 3 also prohibits discrimination against people with HIV, people with AIDS, and their families, and protects lawful rights concerning marriage, employment, medical care, and education. For routine prevention and testing, see chapter 1; for post-exposure prophylaxis after a high-risk exposure, see chapter 13.
Research & references
General Office of the National Health Commission (2020). Work Specifications for Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B, 2020 edition, republished by the Xinjiang Health Commission. https://wjw.xinjiang.gov.cn/hfpc/zhgl6/202012/08b7de496f0b40e586d4b99d00cf79c4.shtml; State Council (2006). Regulations on AIDS Prevention and Treatment, Articles 43 and 44, republished by the Beijing Health Commission. https://wjw.beijing.gov.cn/zwgk_20040/zcwj2022/flfg/202304/t20230408_2992986.html