Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Hadi Danawi

Abstract

The utilization of HIV testing services among pregnant women in Nigeria has not been optimal. Although much is known about the determinants of HIV testing among pregnant women, there is a gap in knowledge on determinants for pregnant women infected with the virus, specifically whether stigma and discrimination are barriers. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of stigmatizing attitudes and personal knowledge of discriminatory practices towards persons living with HIV/AIDS on the decision by pregnant Nigerian women aged 15-49 years to test for HIV during antenatal visits or childbirth. The health belief model served as the study’s theoretical foundation. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used. Secondary data for 659 pregnant women aged 15–49 from the 2013 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey were analyzed. Multivariable regression analysis showed no difference in the likelihood of testing for HIV between pregnant women with positive and negative attitudes towards HIV-infected persons (AOR = 1.55, 95% CI: .59, 4.06), controlling for the effects of educational level and place of residence. Similar results were found between pregnant women with knowledge and those without knowledge of discriminatory practices towards persons living with HIV and their testing for HIV (AOR = 1.61, 95% CI: .53, 4.92) controlling for the same covariates. Pregnant women with higher levels of education and those living in urban areas were more likely to test for HIV than those with no education and those living in rural areas. By designing policies and strategies that specifically address these factors, policymakers and healthcare stakeholders may increase HIV testing among pregnant women in Nigeria, advancing prevention efforts and expanding care and support services in the country, hence facilitating positive social change.

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