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HIV IN PREGNANCY, CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE - Coggle Diagram
HIV IN PREGNANCY
DEFINITION
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system. Vertical transmission (from mother to infant) can happen during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Without intervention, transmission risk is up to 25%, but can be reduced to <1% with effective treatment.
COMPLICATIONS
Maternal: Without ART, high viral load increases transmission risk; untreated maternal HIV carries lifelong health implications.
Fetal/newborn: Without prevention, high chances of acquiring HIV, leading to severe immunodeficiency and high risk of opportunistic infections.
MANAGEMENT
Antenatal (During Pregnancy):
•Test all pregnant women early for HIV (and repeat as needed).
• Start ART (antiretroviral therapy) as soon as possible, regardless of CD4 count or viral load.
Labor & Delivery:
•Continue ART through labor.
•If viral load is >1000 copies/mL or unknown near term, consider elective cesarean at 38 weeks to reduce transmission risk.
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Breastfeeding:
• ART reduces transmission via breast milk; decisions should align with local guidelines balancing benefits and risks.
HEALTH EDUCATION
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Ensure infants receive prompt postnatal ART and prophylaxis, plus long-term follow-up.
Provide supportive counseling to aid ART adherence, address stigma, and support maternal-infant health.
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