Percepções de grávidas em torno da prevenção da contaminação do HIV e de sua transmissão vertical

Abstract

The current study focuses, through a qualitative study, on cultural perceptions of pregnant about the prevention of HIV contamination and its vertical transmission to the baby (TVHIV). It took place in the social space of family health units of the Regional North of Cuiabá. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 21 pregnant women between 2004 and 2005. The subject matter is marked by fears, refusals and several difficulties. The TVHIV is not among the concerns of the pregnant woman and, even with contradictions, do not consider themselves vulnerable to the problem. This illustrates the lack of educative measures and orientation, such as recommended for local services by the Health Department of Brazil, and the disregard for the right to independent choices, including whether or not to undergo the examination.