HIV Testing in Southern New England

About HIV Testing during Pregnancy

What is HIV?

HIV is the abbreviation for human immunodeficiency virus, the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). The virus weakens a person’s ability to fight infections and cancers. A person can get HIV by coming into contact with an infected person’s body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluids, breast milk). HIV can be spread through:

  • Vaginal, oral or anal sex
  • Sharing unclean needles to take drugs
  • Pregnancy (from mother to baby)
  • Blood transfusions (Since 1985, blood donations have been routinely tested for HIV, so infection from blood transfusions is rare)

You cannot get HIV from:

  • Touching or hugging someone who has HIV or AIDS
  • Public bathrooms or swimming pools
  • Sharing cups, utensils, telephones or other personal items
  • Bug bites
How can I know if I have HIV?

You can get a simple blood test to see if you have been infected with HIV. The test looks for HIV antibodies in your blood. These antibodies are substances that the body makes in response to the HIV infection.

A small sample of your blood is drawn and sent to the laboratory for testing. If the first test shows signs of HIV (preliminary test), the sample will be tested again (confirmatory test). HIV infection is only confirmed after the sample of blood has been tested at least two times.

Do I have to take the test?

No, although we strongly recommend it. HIV testing is voluntary. Anyone is free to decline testing. However there are many good reasons to get tested:

  • If you are pregnant and HIV positive, it is critical that you take medicines to help protect your unborn baby from becoming infected.
  • If HIV infection is found, your health care provider can provide more appropriate care. You can also learn ways to stay healthier longer.
  • HIV testing helps prevent the spread of infection

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Patient Reviews

  • “I absolutely love this place. The doctors and nurses are so nice. They work with your schedule and make sure you have a good experience. Doctor Pizarello is simply the best. She is so sweet and makes your visits quick, simple, and straight to the point. I can’t say enough good things about this center. I’ve been with them for 3 years now. The nurses call you right away with test results. The lab and ultrasound is right there, so you can conveniently schedule your testings with your OB appointments. Overall awesome place with awesome staff!”
    – Wendy

  • “All the doctors were always very knowledgeable, kind and understanding.”

  • “During my pregnancy and my birthing experience, I felt very secure with my physician and the way they cared for me and my well-being.”

  • “Wonderful people, very warm and welcoming!”
    – Tamisha

  • “I have no problem at all calling them or waiting period was fast and friendly. This center is awesome. I would recommend it.”
    – Linda

  • “Love center for OBGYN have been coming for over 5 years. My doctor is great, staff is great. I never have had to wait to get in a room or on the phone. Not sure what the one star ratings are about. I have nothing but good things to say.”
    –Heather

  • “Overall I had a terrific epxerience with the practice during my pregnancy. All of the physicians were terrific and always took the time to answer my questions.”

  • “Everyone at the practice from the physician to the receptionist has been wonderful and helpful all of the time.”

  • “The nurses and doctors were amazing. Whenever I needed something or needed help, they were right there.”

  • “They took care of our every pregnancy need before and after the birth of our baby. Outstanding staff all the way around. They are a very busy practice so there are delays at times, but my number one concern was the care and health of my baby and myself, and they were top notch as far as that was concerned!”
    – Kelly

  • “Love this place. Everyone is so friendly, it’s like family. Love everyone. Been coming here for over 9 years. Won’t go anywhere else.”

  • “I had a wonderful experience. Staff and physicians were thoughtful, kind, informative and welcoming.”

  • “Great experience. Everyone was friendly and beyond helpful.”

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