Abstract
Ethical problems on the movement to routinize the mandatory HIV testing in prenatal care are critically discussed. Recent advances in clinical technology had achieved a remarkable reduction in mother-to-child-transmission rate of HIV. Some medical experts have recommended the mandatory, universal testing for all pregnant women. Unfortunately, there are not sufficient treatment institutions at this time in Japan. To be routinely offered is, not testing, but informed consent, pre- and post-testing counseling and enough information on support resources in terms of rights. Some address a duty to know own HIV status resting on the harm-to-others principle. It is dubious that it is justified as an absolute obligation.
