HIV in Pregnancy: A Review (UNAIDS, 1999, 67 p.): SECTION B : MANAGEMENT OF HIV-POSITIVE PREGNANT WOMEN: Antenatal care: (introduction...)

HIV in Pregnancy: A Review (UNAIDS, 1999, 67 p.)

SECTION B : MANAGEMENT OF HIV-POSITIVE PREGNANT WOMEN

Antenatal care

		*(introduction...)*
		Obstetrical management
		Examination and investigations
		Medical treatment during pregnancy
		Antiretroviral therapy

(introduction...)

Most HIV positive women will be asymptomatic and have no major obstetrical problems during their pregnancies^{99,366,367,368,369}. They should receive similar obstetric antenatal care to that given to HIV-negative women, unless indicated by the need to provide specific HIV-related treatment. There is no evidence that there is a need to increase the number of antenatal visits, provided there are no complications of the HIV infection, although additional counselling time may be required. The care of the HIV positive woman during pregnancy should include ongoing counselling and support as an integral part of the management. Advice on the possible risks of unprotected intercourse during pregnancy should be provided.