Everyone deserves access to essential health services. Upholding the right to health requires ensuring that healthcare is available to all, free from discrimination, background, or gender. In the last decade, significant progress has been made in the healthcare domain, and thus, on December 1, 2024, the world commemorates World AIDS Day.  With this year’s theme “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right", the campaign calls on global leaders and citizens to advocate for the right to health by addressing the inequalities that impede efforts to end AIDS.

Also Read: World AIDS Day 2023: All You Need To Know About HIV Prevention And Treatment

HIV is primarily spread through unprotected sex, contaminated blood transfusions, the use of hypodermic needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy. The infection progresses through three stages: acute infection, clinical latency, and AIDS.

Initial Symptoms

Early symptoms of HIV include fever, swollen and tender lymph nodes, throat inflammation, skin rash, extreme fatigue, and sores on the mouth and genitals. As the infection advances, it severely compromises the immune system, leading to neurological issues, respiratory infections, unintended weight loss, and various other health problems, ultimately impacting nearly every organ system in the body.

Associated Risks

HIV patients are at an increased risk of developing certain cancers, such as Kaposi’s sarcoma, primary central nervous system lymphoma, conjunctival cancer, and those caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Despite medical advancements, a complete cure for HIV/AIDS remains elusive. Among the challenges faced by healthcare professionals is addressing the needs of children born with HIV.

Preventing Mother-To-Child Transmission Of HIV

A child may contract HIV if the mother is infected with the virus during pregnancy. To address this issue, the Government of India has made mandatory HIV testing for all pregnant women shortly after conception.

Also Read: World AIDS Day 2022: History, Myths About HIV, And Way To Prevent The Spread Of Disease

Key Measures For HIV-Infected Pregnant Women

Start Antiretroviral Therapy (ART):

ART reduces the risk of mother-to-child transmission. Treatment can begin before, during, or after pregnancy.

Timely Medication:

Pregnant women who tested HIV positive should start taking medications prescribed by the doctor immediately after conception.

Safety Of HIV Medicines:

HIV medications are generally safe during pregnancy and do not cause birth defects. They work by preventing the virus from multiplying, thereby reducing the level of infection in the body.

Individualized Treatment Plans:

Doctors prescribe HIV regimens based on several factors, including the patient’s current and past use of HIV medicines, other medical conditions related to pregnancy, and the results of drug-resistance testing. By adhering to these measures, pregnant women with HIV can significantly reduce the likelihood of transmitting the virus to their children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should HIV-Positive Pregnant Women Take Medicines During Labor?

Yes. The risk of HIV transmission from mother to child is particularly high during vaginal delivery, as the baby passes through the birth canal and may be exposed to the virus present in the mother’s blood and other bodily fluids. Administering HIV medicines during labor significantly reduces the likelihood of transmission.

Can Caesarean Delivery Reduce The Risk Of Transmission?

Yes. A scheduled cesarean delivery is often recommended, especially for women with a viral load exceeding 1,000 copies/ml. This approach minimizes the baby’s exposure to the virus during delivery, thereby reducing the risk of transmission.

Should Women With HIV Take Medicines After Delivery?

Yes. Continuing HIV medicines lifelong helps prevent the progression of the virus to AIDS. Women should consult their doctor about maintaining their medication regimen and the appropriate dosage post-delivery.

Additionally, babies born to mothers with HIV are given HIV medicines for 4 to 6 weeks after birth. This preventive treatment reduces the chance of infection that may have been transmitted during delivery.

How Effective Are Antiretroviral Treatments For Prevention?

Antiretroviral therapy significantly reduces risks of transmission and offers lifesaving benefits. The treatment also strengthens immune protection and ensures safe pregnancies thus improving maternal and child health.

Can An HIV-Positive Mother Deliver HIV-Free Babies?

Yes, proper prenatal care, consistent medication adherence, scheduled cesarean deliveries, and postnatal infant prophylaxis greatly enhance the chances of HIV-free births.

Is Breastfeeding Safe For HIV Positive Mothers?

Exclusive formula-based alternatives are recommended instead of breastfeeding for HIV-positive mothers. However, it is advisable to consult healthcare providers for personalized guidelines and better solutions.

Why Is Early Detection Important For Pregnancy And HIV?

Early testing identifies risks, initiates treatment promptly, and strengthens maternal health for HIV-positive mothers. It also prevents vertical transmission and enhances better outcomes for the mother and the unborn baby.

What Role Do Partners Play In Preventing HIV Transmission?

Partner testing promotes awareness, supports prevention plans, and encourages medication adherence. It also strengthens the emotional bonds between the parents and the unborn child.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile, M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References:

Scientific Journals Related to HIV/AIDS

https://www.apa.org/pi/aids/resources/research/journals

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/17582652