Chhapra: Saran civil surgeon (CS) Dr Sagar Dulal Sinha has said that getting tested for HIV and syphilis is the first step in accepting the responsibility of motherhood for any pregnant woman. This would not only keep the would-be mother safe but would also save the unborn child from any infection in future.Making this appeal to the newly wed couple, the CS on Monday said that the symptoms of the two diseases may not be visible in the beginning, and if remained undetected, the infection may pass on to the child creating serious health problems, even death. “Pregnant women must come forward for the HIV test without any fear or hesitation. In case, the blood sample confirms the presence of HIV or syphilis beforehand, the foetus could be saved from adverse effects. The facilities for these tests are available in all govt health centres free of cost, the CS said, adding Ashas, ANMs and other health workers have been creating awareness about these tests in different villages. The CS suggested to get these tests for marriage to be on a safe side. The CS said that unsafe sex, use of infected syringe or needle, and infected blood transfusion are some of the possible reasons for the infection of HIV or syphilis.