Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Pregnancy

Annie M Dude1, Maura Jones1, Tenisha Wilson1

  • 1Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.

Approximately 5000 people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) give birth each year. Perinatal transmission of HIV will occur in about 15% to 45% of pregnancies without treatment. With appropriate antiretroviral therapy for pregnant people as well as appropriate intrapartum and postpartum interventions, the rate of perinatal transmission can be reduced to less than 1%. Antiretroviral therapy will also reduce health risks for pregnant patients living with HIV. All pregnant people should be offered the opportunity to learn their HIV status and access treatment as needed.

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