We are living in a time where there is an increase in access to information about HIV and AIDS. We have truly come a long way from when the first HIV/AIDS case in 1981 was detected. There is better access to medication and people are living healthy lives with this disease. However, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done in relation to decreasing new cases of HIV. One of the main causes of the continued spread of HIV/AIDS is from mother to child during childbirth. According to Pedaids (2020), mother-to-child HIV transmission, which accounts for more than 90% of new childhood infections and can be reduced to less than 5%. this can be done by providing the HIV-positive mother access to effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) and support services during pregnancy, delivery, and breastfeeding. As part of commemorating World Aids Day and the theme of Global Solidarity, we at Kunashe Foundation would like to shine a light on how to aid Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV.
HIV Testing and Diagnosis: for women who are pregnant, HIV counselling and testing is the first and most critical step in reducing mother-to-child transmission. In Zimbabwe, one can go to Population Services Zimbabwe for HIV testing and counselling or any general Hospital.
Prenatal Treatment: if one tests positive for HIV taking Antiretroviral drugs throughout pregnancy and delivery, can reduce the risk of HIV transmission to an infant to less than 5% in accordance with the WHO (2019).
Safe Childbirth: exposure of HIV in the birth canal may play an important role in mother to child transmission of HIV. Hence, caesarean sections are often recommended as a protective measure. The science behind this is that there is limited exposure to blood and genital secretions in the birth canal in comparison to when giving birth vaginally.
Giving birth to an HIV negative baby is possible and it requires one to get the right treatment to prevent mother to child transmission. Your health and your baby’s health are important. If you would like more information on PMTCT visit the Wolrd Health Organisation or Ministry of Health websites or consult your doctor.
By Ratidzo Makombe, Kudzai Mutuwira and Faith Masoka
Edited by Ratidzo Njagu
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