Aishwarya Rai Bachchan appeals pregnant women to undergo HIV test

Vadodara: Actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has appealed to expectant mothers to shed inhibitions regarding HIV/AIDS test so as to prevent their children from being infected by the deadly virus.

The 39-year-old actress, who is the UNAIDS International Goodwill Ambassador, said on the sidelines of a function here today that she would tour various parts of the country to educate women on the issue. Aishwarya said pregnant women should shed the fear of HIV/AIDS test. "Though there is no medicine for curing this disease, its medical treatment is possible," the actress said. "I will help break social barriers and stigmas that are attached with the disease. I will help raise awareness on issues related to stopping new HIV infections in children and advocate for increased access to anti-retroviral treatment," she said. Meanwhile, when asked on her future career plans, Aishwarya said right now she is busy looking after her one-year-old daughter Aaradhya. PTI