Question
We are both positive. How can we have a negative baby?
1 March 2012. Related: All topics, Pregnancy.
I am HIV positive and so is my partner.
We’ve been on treatment since October 2011 and we want a baby.
What can we do for our baby to be negative?
Answer
Firstly, it is good that you are looking to the future and planning to have a baby. Many HIV positive couples are having healthy HIV negative babies.
In response to your question, the best way of preventing transmission of HIV to your baby is by having an undetectable viral load. Viral load is the
amount of virus in your body. Having an undetectable viral load means that you have very little virus and this means that the risk of passing on HIV is
low. It is good that you have both started taking treatment. ARVs (Antiretrovirals) are the only proven way to achieve an undetectable viral load.
In terms of conception, there are a number of options available to couples like you. For more detailed information on these options, please follow this
link to our guide To HIV, pregnancy and women’s health. The guide also answers a lot of other general questions you may have around HIV and pregnancy.
Good luck with your future plans.
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