Question

Is it possible for my baby to test negative and then positive?

19 August 2016. Related: All topics, HIV testing, HIV transmission, Pregnancy, Southern Africa.

Answer

Answer: Muirgen Stack

Hi,

Thanks for your question. Congratulations on having a baby.

Testing babies for HIV is a bit more complicated than testing other people. This is because newborn babies will carry their mum’s antibodies. Antibodies are what your body uses to fight viruses. The HIV tests that are usually used look for these. So despite not necessarily having HIV newborn babies of positive mothers would test positive. This test can be positive in some babies for 18 months.

This is why a different test is usually used. This is called a HIV PCR DNA test. This looks for the virus itself, rather than the body’s response to it.

Has your baby had this type of test or just an antibody test?

Do you mind me asking if you are on HIV meds or were during your pregnancy? Taking HIV meds protects the baby when pregnant.

You can find more information about testing babies for HIV in our guide.

You can also find general information about HIV and pregnancy on our website.