Efficacy and safety of antiretroviral treatment in preventing vertical transmission of HIV in pregnant women
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52692/1857-0011.2025.2-82.32Keywords:
HIV, vertical transmission , pregnancy , antiretroviral therapy , neonatal prophylaxis , maternal healthAbstract
Introduction: Mother-to-child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant cause of infant morbidity, particularly in regions with limited healthcare resources. Although modern antiretroviral therapies (ART) have substantially reduced this risk, challenges persist regarding early initiation of treatment, maternal adherence, pregnancy monitoring, and unequal access to prenatal care. Objective: The aim of this article is to analyze and synthesize recent scientific data on the prevention of vertical HIV transmission during pregnancy, by identifying effective therapeutic and prophylactic strategies and evaluating their level of application in current medical practice. Methods: This article is a review of the scientific literature addressing the prevention of vertical HIV transmission during pregnancy. Data were collected from internationally recognized databases, including PubMed, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Library, using keywords such as “HIV vertical transmission,” “pregnancy,” “antiretroviral therapy,” and “neonatal prophylaxis.” Articles published between 2018 and 2025 in English or Romanian were included, provided they discussed prevention strategies, ART effectiveness, mode of delivery, breastfeeding, and postnatal interventions. Results: The rate of vertical HIV transmission can be reduced to below 2% when ART is initiated early, viral load is consistently monitored, and obstetrical management is adapted-such as through elective cesarean delivery whereindicated. In the Republic of Moldova, ART coverage exceeds 90%, and the incidence of vertical transmission has decreased significantly due to widespread prenatal screening and specialized counseling.Conclusions: Preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission requires an integrated, multidisciplinary approach based on early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and public health policies adapted to specific epidemiological contexts. Strengthening medical education and community support networks is essential for eliminating vertical HIV transmission.
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