The strength of a nurse-led model of care is paramount in the education arena. A nurse with experience in and knowledge of caring for women LHIV in pregnancy and the perinatal period can provide support, counselling and education to the woman and her significant others, and to the wider health and allied health community caring for her. This must include the importance of confidentiality of health information.

Education to health professionals may be through formal education sessions, provision of written material and current expert resources, mentoring of less experienced staff, developing Nursing Care Plans, and serving as a resource for other nurses and midwives as required. 

Stigma around PLHIV within healthcare settings remains a serious barrier to engagement in care and to trusting relationships with health professionals. (13)

Education is important for breaking down preconceived, unhelpful, or ill-informed ideas that individuals may have about PLHIV. 

There are many valuable resources for use in education about HIV in pregnancy. Some useful and accessible resources are listed below.