HIV infection and pregnancy.

The epidemiology, management, and outcome of pregnancy complicated by HIV infection are discussed. Although lymphocyte counts may drop during pregnancy, HIV infection does not appear to increase the risk of obstetric complications and poor pregnancy outcome. Although most pregnant women with HIV are asymptomatic, progression of disease, including the development of opportunistic infections, may occur during gestation. Serious bacterial infections are not common unless the CD4 count is less than 300 cells/mm3. Transmission of HIV to the neonate complicates approximately 30% of affected pregnancies.