Pregnancy care tips if you’re living with HIV

How to Care for Your Pregnancy and Baby When You’re HIV-Positive

If you’re living with HIV and expecting a baby or planning to start a family, taking extra precautions is important for your health and your baby’s well-being. Here’s a guide on how to take care of yourself and your baby during pregnancy when you’re HIV-positive.

Before You Get Pregnant

Before trying to conceive, it’s crucial to talk to your healthcare provider. Most doctors recommend that you start taking your HIV medication daily and have an undetectable viral load before trying for a baby. Your healthcare provider will also check if you need to change your HIV treatment to ensure it’s safe for both you and your baby.

This pre-pregnancy consultation is key because it helps you understand the risks of mother-to-child transmission of HIV during pregnancy. You’ll also learn the importance of adhering to your medication regimen to lower these risks. By taking these steps, you can make informed decisions about your pregnancy.

During Your Pregnancy

Once your pregnancy is confirmed, it’s time to consult with your HIV specialist. This is an important step in managing HIV during pregnancy and reducing the risk of HIV transmission to your baby.

Monitoring Your Viral Load and Immune System:

At this consultation, tests will be performed to check your viral load and the strength of your immune system. If you didn’t know your HIV status before pregnancy or haven’t been taking your medication regularly, you’ll likely need a blood test to assess any potential virus mutations, and your healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate medication for you.

Team Care Approach:

During your pregnancy, you will be supported by a healthcare team, including your HIV specialist, obstetrician, and possibly a case manager. This team will work together to ensure that you’re receiving the best care possible.

Use this time to discuss any concerns you have regarding your health, pregnancy, or HIV treatment.

Labor and Delivery

The delivery phase is delicate, as there’s a risk of mother-to-child transmission. Your healthcare team will closely monitor your viral load throughout your pregnancy, and your delivery method (vaginal birth or cesarean section) will be determined based on your viral load. Having an undetectable viral load can help reduce the chances of transmission during labor.

After Delivery: Caring for Your Baby

After giving birth, your baby will need to be tested for HIV at birth and again at 4 to 6 weeks. If you’re breastfeeding, make sure you only give your baby breast milk. Combining breast milk and formula may increase the risk of HIV transmission if your baby is HIV-negative.

Once you stop breastfeeding, your baby will need another HIV test to confirm their final HIV status.

Continue Your HIV Treatment:

Even after childbirth, it’s vital to continue your HIV treatment (ARVs) as prescribed. Taking ARVs will help lower your viral load, keeping you healthy and reducing the chances of transmitting HIV.

Key Takeaways:

• Consult with your healthcare provider before trying to get pregnant.
• Adhere to your HIV treatment daily for the health of you and your baby.
• Monitor your viral load during pregnancy to reduce transmission risks.
• Follow breastfeeding guidelines to ensure your baby’s health and HIV-negative status.
• Continue HIV treatment after delivery for long-term health benefits.

You Can Have an HIV-Negative Baby

Remember, it is entirely possible to have a healthy, HIV-negative baby when you’re living with HIV. The most important steps are to stay informed, take your medication as prescribed, and work closely with your healthcare team.

If you or someone you know needs advice or assistance, feel free to reach out to me through Ask Choma, or contact me directly on Facebook, Twitter, or WhatsApp (071 172 3657).