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Voice Over: What is HIV? Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: The medical name of virus causing AIDS is named ‘Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)’. It specifically attacks CD4 cells in immune system, making the body become more susceptible to certain infections and cancers. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: In the early stages of HIV infection, the body may not show any signs and symptoms. If the infected person left untreated, HIV will gradually destroy CD4 cells in the body resulting in a weakened immune system which can lead to certain cancers and opportunistic infections, ultimately progressing to AIDS. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Although there is as yet no cure for HIV infection, there are oral antiretroviral drugs available that can effectively inhibit the viral replication. With early diagnosis and effective treatment, most people living with HIV can still lead healthy lives with quality. Voice Over: How do I know if I am infected with HIV? Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: HIV infection can be asymptomatic. Testing is the most effective diagnostic method to determine whether you are infected with HIV. Both blood test and rapid tests can accurately and effectively detect infection status. Anyone who has had sex but does not know his/her HIV status should consider getting tested for HIV at least once. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: All pregnant women are offered with HIV antibody testing during antenatal checkups. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: If pregnant women who have negative result in HIV test during antenatal checkups, they should use condom consistently and properly every time during sex to protect their fetuses. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: If pregnant women who are at higher risk of infection such as having new or multiple sexual partners, or infected with other sexually transmitted infections during pregnancy, they can discuss with healthcare workers to repeat HIV antibody test. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: If pregnant women whose partners are HIV-positive with antiretroviral therapy and consistently maintain an undetectable viral load, they do not need to worry about HIV transmission through sexual contact. Voice Over: What is the relationship between HIV and pregnancy? Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: People living with HIV who have not received antiretroviral treatment may have the virus in their vaginal secretions, blood or breast milk. Pregnant women can transmit HIV to their babies during pregnancy or through the breast milk. Once the baby is infected, he/she will require lifelong medication treatment. Voice Over: What should I do for myself and my baby if I am infected with HIV? Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: First of all, people living with HIV can give birth to healthy babies. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Antiretroviral drugs can effectively inhibit viral replication in the body and maintain the viral load at undetectable levels. Mother-to-child transmission risk will significantly reduce from 15-40% without use of medications to less than 1%. Doctors will prescribe antiretroviral drugs appropriately to ensure safety of both mother and baby by considering individual circumstances of the pregnant woman. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Doctors will closely monitor the treatment progress of the pregnant women and maintain close communication with obstetricians. Considering their viral control and other needs to select the most appropriate delivery method. Voice Over: Any follow up is required after childbirth?
Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: After delivery, mothers should continue to take antiretroviral drugs with follow up regularly. At follow-up appointment, you can discuss with your healthcare provider about your family plan such that they can offer tailored advice to meet your needs based on your individual needs and circumstances. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Breastfeeding should also be avoided. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Babies are required to complete a full course of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) prescribed by the doctor. The paediatrician will also arrange testing with follow up afterwards. Dr. TO Ki Wai, Heather: Overall, antiretroviral medications greatly reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. HIV infected women with medications can have healthy children. Prevent mother-to-child transmission, starts now. |