HIV perinatal transmission refers to the transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from an HIV-positive mother to her child during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or breastfeeding. This mode of transmission poses a significant global health challenge, but with proper interventions, including antiretroviral therapy and other preventive measures, the risk can be significantly reduced. Understanding the factors influencing perinatal transmission and implementing effective prevention strategies are crucial in combating the spread of HIV to newborns, in reference to an article published by Healthline.



However, you can avoid this by following these safety measures:

Health care services

The mainstay of HIV treatment is antiretrovirals, which do not cure the disease but rather prevent the virus from replicating within an infected person's body. Here are examples of some of these drugs:

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a therapy that can protect both the mother and the baby from HIV infection throughout pregnancy and lactation. The CDC estimates that the risk of HIV transmission from a woman to her infant is less than 1% if the mother takes her HIV medication during her pregnancy and delivery and gives her newborn HIV medications as prescribed by a doctor for 4 to 6 weeks after birth.

ART-positive women should take this medicine to help stop the spread of HIV, as it has the ability to reduce the viral load to an undetectable level if used properly.

Also, determining her current health status via examination.

Pregnant women whose partners have sex with multiple people should get tested for HIV periodically. The faster the virus is detected and treated, the greater the chance that the medicine will protect the unborn child.

Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) and similar drugs can be used to reduce the risk of getting the virus following such an exposure. Beginning PEP as soon as possible after exposure but no later than 72 hours after exposure maximizes its effectiveness.

Since the virus can be transmitted through breast milk, new moms should stop feeding their infants as soon as possible.

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