Do I have to get tested for HIV if I am pregnant?

State law requires medical providers to test all pregnant women in New Jersey for HIV as part of routine prenatal care. However, you have the right to refuse the test.

But the medical provider who diagnoses your pregnancy or the new provider who sees you within four weeks after you give birth must counsel you about HIV/AIDS and recommend that you get tested.

What happens if I refuse to get tested?

You may be asked to sign a form that states that you have chosen not to be tested and that you have been informed all of the following:

• How HIV is transmitted
• The benefits of voluntary testing and knowing if you are infected
• The treatments available for you and your child if you test positive
• Your right to refuse to be tested without fear of the denial of any appropriate prenatal care for yourself or care for your baby.

Does my baby have to be tested?

If you were HIV+ during the pregnancy or your HIV status is not known, your newborn will be tested.

When during my pregnancy would I be tested?

The CDC recommends that all pregnant women be tested as early in the pregnancy as possible and usually again in the third trimester.

What kind of test is it?

The testing is included as part of the standard prenatal blood tests.

What happens to the test results?

The results are confidential information. By law, they are sent to the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services as important public health data.

Where can I get more information?

You can call the NJ HIV (Testing) Hotline (1-866-HIV-CHEC) and the NJ AIDS/STD Hotline (1-800-624-2377). Or you can find more details at HIV/AIDS Services (from the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services).

This information last reviewed 3/21/10.