How can pregnant women with HIV protect their babies from the virus?

Pregnant women with HIV can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to their babies by utilizing antiretroviral treatment during pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding. This treatment helps maintain a low viral load, which is critical in minimizing the chances of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

Antiretroviral therapy works by suppressing the virus in the mother's body, which helps to protect the fetus during pregnancy. Additionally, it also decreases the risk of transmission during labor. If the mother continues this treatment while breastfeeding, the risk of transmission through breast milk is also greatly reduced. Overall, the use of antiretroviral drugs is a proven and effective strategy for protecting both the mother and child throughout the critical periods of pregnancy, childbirth, and early infancy.

Other options do not provide effective measures for preventing HIV transmission. Avoiding prenatal care can actually heighten risks both for the mother and the child. While cesarean sections may be recommended in certain cases, they are not universally required for all HIV-positive mothers and do not replace the necessity of antiretroviral treatment. Limiting contact after birth can be impractical and does not adequately address the risk of transmission during pregnancy and breastfeeding stages. Thus, antiretroviral treatment is crucial for ensuring the