The Prevalence of HIV Infection Among Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital: A Five-year Review

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the body’s immune system and, when undiagnosed and untreated, may lead to adverse consequences. In pregnancy, HIV may lead to many adverse consequences, including mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). Objective: To determine the prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with HIV infection among pregnant women receiving antenatal care in the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. Methodology: We reviewed the antenatal clinic, voluntary counselling and testing register, and partner notification registers for all booked patients who accessed antenatal care at the facility over five years; extracted, coded, and analysed the data. Results: A total of 9062 new patients registered for antenatal care during the period; 476 were HIV-positive, giving a prevalence rate of 5.3%. Three hundred and sixty-seven (77.1%) of the HIV infected women were already aware of their HIV status and on treatment, while 22.9% were newly diagnosed. Of these, 343 (72.1%) had started antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) before booking for antenatal care, 26.2% started them after diagnosis at booking, and 1.7% declined ARVs; partner notification was 81.3%. Most (70.2%) of the patients were 25-34years, multiparous (45.8%) and married (93.9%). While 11.7% had no formal education, 72.5% had at least a secondary level of education, were civil servants (55.2%), and lived in urban areas (59.8%). Conclusion: The prevalence of HIV infection was high. There is a need for emphasis on primary prevention strategies tailored toward women in the older group aged 25-34 years, partner notification, and ARV acceptance for treatment and Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT).