Can HIV-Positive Moms Have Healthy Babies? Yes, Here’s How

Pregnancy is a life-changing journey, and for women living with HIV, it may bring unique concerns. From reducing the risk of transmitting the virus to your baby to understanding the safety of your medications, the process can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: many HIV-positive women successfully deliver healthy babies every year.

In the U.S. alone, thousands of HIV-positive women give birth annually with the right medical support and adherence to treatments. If you’re living with HIV and considering pregnancy or already expecting, here’s everything you need to know to ensure a safe and healthy journey.

Yes, Pregnancy is Possible
Living with HIV doesn’t mean you can’t conceive. However, consulting an HIV specialist before pregnancy is essential. They can assess your overall health, adjust medications if necessary, and minimize the risk of passing the virus to your baby. Surprise pregnancies happen, but early medical intervention is key to protecting both you and your baby.

If your viral load is undetectable—meaning the virus is so low in your blood that it doesn’t show up in tests—the chances of transmitting HIV to your baby drop to less than 1%.

Staying on Your Medications is Crucial
HIV medications are your lifeline during pregnancy. These antiretroviral treatments not only protect your health but also significantly reduce the risk of passing HIV to your baby. Missing doses can lead to higher viral loads, increasing the transmission risk.

While most HIV medications are safe during pregnancy, your doctor may recommend adjustments based on your current regimen and how far along you are. Open communication with your healthcare provider is critical to balancing safety and effectiveness.

Risks to Consider
HIV-positive women face some pregnancy-related risks, such as miscarriage, preterm delivery, and low birth weight. Even with treatment, complications may occur. This is why a tailored care plan is essential, combining expertise from HIV specialists and obstetricians.

Most babies born to HIV-positive mothers acquire the virus during delivery. Medications given during labor or a scheduled cesarean section for high viral loads can drastically lower this risk. Post-birth, giving your baby HIV medication for a few weeks further reduces the chances of transmission to less than 1%.

Breastfeeding Decisions
Breastfeeding with HIV requires careful consideration. If your viral load is undetectable and you’re on consistent treatment, the risk of transmission is extremely low. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor and family to make an informed choice. For those who opt to breastfeed, adhering to your treatment plan is non-negotiable.

What About PrEP?
For women without HIV but at high risk, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) offers protection during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While daily PrEP pills are safe, injectable versions aren’t approved for pregnant women yet. If your partner has HIV or you’ve engaged in risky behaviors, PrEP can be a vital preventive measure.

High-Risk Pregnancy Monitoring
Pregnancies involving HIV are considered high-risk. This means more frequent checkups and coordination between your HIV care team and obstetrician. Routine tests will monitor your liver, kidneys, and the effectiveness of your medication. Vaccines for influenza, COVID-19, and other conditions may also be recommended to keep you and your baby healthy.

Thanks to modern medicine, having HIV doesn’t prevent you from becoming a parent. With the right care, your baby can be born HIV-free. Trust your healthcare team to guide you through every step of this journey, ensuring the best possible outcome for both you and your child.

This educational resource was supported by Merck.