1st August 2023

HIV and Pregnancy

ART is the first line treatment for pregnant women with HIV, and the risk of vertical transmission correlates directly with viral load, which means ART is the single most important intervention for reducing the risk of vertical transmission. If a woman is on effective ART, then vaginal delivery is preferred to a C-section.

In the UK, breastfeeding is not recommended due to the risk of transmission. However, breastfeeding is preferred in the developing world due to the other benefits it provides.

Babies born to HIV-positive mothers should receive four weeks of treatment with zidovudine (AZT) postpartum.