Question
Is it possible to have a HIV negative baby if we are both HIV positive?
7 May 2010. Related: All topics, Pregnancy.
Is it possible to have baby with my wife while both of us are HIV positive with undetectable viral loads and CD4 counts at a range of 320 on a regimen of Sustiva (efavirenz) and Truvada (tenofovir and FTC)? If so what will be the chance of infection to our baby?
Answer
Thank you for your question.
It is possible for two people who have HIV to have a child who is HIV negative. If you both have undetectable viral loads and are stable on treatment the risk of the baby becoming HIV positive during pregnancy and birth is very low. You will need to speak to your doctor about prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT).
Once the baby is born he or she will need to be given a short course of HIV medication. If possible your wife should also avoid breast-feeding and instead use formula milk mixed with sterilized water.
Before you start trying for a baby you should talk to your doctor about your wife possibly changing her medication, as Sustiva (efavirenz) is not considered safe for use during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy.
For further information please follow this link to the i-Base ‘Guide to HIV, Pregnancy and Women’s Health’ and follow this link to similar questions about pregnancy and HIV
Good luck with starting your family.
i-Base is in the UK and we have limited information about other countries.
It sounds like you should see what infertility support there is in the region that you live. HIV organisations in India may be able to help.
Good luck with this.
Both we are positive.. My husband’s sperm count is so low. Still i am dreaming for having negative baby. My viral load is below detectable. Is there is any treatment in India for this…? Kindly suggest me…