HIV and pregnancy – what happens if I have HIV and get pregnant

Infection with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) causes AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), one of the world’s most fatal diseases. A woman who is infected with HIV may pass the virus to her baby either during pregnancy, labour and delivery or through breastfeeding.

If you are HIV positive you should consult an obstetrician who is an expert in HIV care either prior to becoming pregnant or as early in the pregnancy as possible. He will advise you on the use of medication to reduce the chances of your baby becoming infected with the virus.

• If you are already taking HIV medication prior to pregnancy and are in the first twelve weeks of pregnancy you should talk to your doctor regarding the risks and benefits of continuing the HIV drugs.
• If you are more than three months pregnant and have been taking HIV drugs prior to pregnancy you will probably be advised to continue with the medication.
• If you are diagnosed HIV positive in the first three months of pregnancy the HIV drugs will not normally be commenced until around 14 weeks.

If you have not taken HIV drugs during your pregnancy you can still reduce the risk of your baby being infected by the virus by using HIV medication during labour and birth.

You may be advised to have an elective caesarean section as this reduces the risk of passing the infection onto your baby during birth.

Breastfeeding is not recommended as the HIV virus can be passed to your baby in the breastmilk.