Maternal HIV retesting among women identified as HIV-negative on first antenatal screening in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Scoping Review and Meta-Analysis

This systematic scoping review and meta-analysis seek to assess the evidence base on the implementation of maternal perinatal HIV retesting in sub-Saharan Africa. The review involves the comprehensive assessment of existing literature to identify patterns and trends related to HIV retesting among pregnant women after an initial negative test. By systematically collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing data from multiple sources, this study intends to comprehensively describe the current evidence on maternal HIV retesting in sub-Saharan Africa, including a description of key research gaps. The meta-analysis component will combine quantitative data from various studies to provide a more robust estimate of the prevalence and practice of retesting across sub-Saharan Africa. We hope that our synthesis will inform policy and practice in the region with the ultimate goal of improving HIV prevention and treatment, and maternal and child health outcomes. The review is currently being conducted by the study team listed above. Please cite this protocol in any published work resulting from its use.