Management of the pregnant woman infected with the human immunodeficiency virus

Abstract

A significant number of the one to two million adults in the United States infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are women of childbearing age. It is estimated that approximately 50% of HIV-infected pregnant women will transmit the virus to their fetuses or neonates. Obstetricians and gynecologists must be prepared to care for HIV-infected pregnant women. Comprehensive management includes clinical and psychosocial care in the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods. Referrals and/or consultations with other providers are often appropriate. Infection control policies must be uniform for all patients because not all HIV-infected patients will be so identified.