Management Strategies in Perinatal HIV

Abstract

Current management of perinatal HIV infections and exposures involves the administration of antiretroviral therapy to both the pregnant mother and to her child after delivery. Striving to achieve safe and effective medication management is key in preventing new pediatric HIV infections. Maternal HIV testing and subsequent monitoring can help to identify fetal HIV exposures during pregnancy, maternal nonadherence, insufficient treatment regimens, and otherwise undiscovered exposures during the delivery process. There are several well-constructed guidelines that offer expert references for healthcare providers. This chapter will summarize current recommendations from the United States, with a brief insight into select international guidelines. Although available guidelines provide a structured framework for the healthcare team, there has recently been a significant drive to advance current perinatal management and outcomes.