Antepartum management of pregnant women with HIV infection.

As HIV infection increases in women, childbearing becomes a major concern due to its effect on the mother and also a fetal transmission rate approximating 40%. Pregnancy may negatively influence the progression of HIV, but confounding factors such as access to health care are just as responsible. Other studies suggest that asymptomatic women do not have an increase in poor pregnancy outcomes and rarely have an acceleration of their HIV disease, but those with symptoms may see more rapid progression. Modes and rates of mother-baby transmission are discussed. Specific components of prenatal care for the HIV-infected woman are included.