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Abstract
The Human Immuno Virus (HIV) which is the virus associated with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a heterosexual disease. Women can pass the virus on to their unborn babies across the placenta. The issue of AIDS in Obstetrics raises questions about screening, counselling and handling of women together with staff anxiety. This study reports on knowledge, attitudes and anxieties of staff in relation to AIDS in Obstetrics together with an evaluation of the impact that AIDS workshops has on these. A group of Health Care workers on Obstetric and Gynecological teams participated. Initial anxiety was high. Knowledge levels were improved by the workshops. Decisions to screen women in risky cases was affected by group discussions. Staff were particularly concerned about their own risk, despite the low level of risk which exists if routine infection control procedures are followed. The results are discussed in the light of the future needs not only for women with the virus but for the general obstetric population.