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How can a 28-year-old woman with HIV manage her pregnancy?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 28 years old and recently tested positive for HIV during my pregnancy. I am terrified about passing it to my baby. What treatments are available to reduce the risk of transmission? Will I need to deliver by C-section, or can I have a normal delivery?

Also, is breastfeeding safe in my situation, or should I consider formula feeding?

Please suggest.
Answered by Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

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Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

To reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV follow the below suggestions:

1. Antiretroviral therapy (ART): Start or continue ART immediately to suppress your viral load.

2. Delivery method: If your viral load is undetectable near delivery, vaginal delivery is often safe. Otherwise, a C-section may be recommended.

3. Feeding: Formula feeding is advised in most settings to avoid transmission through breast milk, but guidelines may vary based on resources and ART access.

Work closely with your healthcare team to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At February 25, 2025
Reviewed At December 19, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah
Dr. Georges Hany Kozah

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Georges Hany Kozah is an experienced Lebanese Gynecologist with an MD from The Lebanese University Faculty of Medical Sciences (2016) and a Fellowship completed in 2022. Specializing in high-risk obstetrics, advanced ultrasound, oncology, colposcopy, and hysteroscopy, he combines expertise with a patient-centered approach. Passionate about women’s health, Dr. Kozah strives for excellence and optimal outcomes in collaborative, innovative care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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