Question

What do my viral load and CD4 tests mean?

11 March 2013. Related: All topics, CD4 and viral load, Pregnancy.

Hi,

I’m doing good but the question is that: why is my CD4 count 934 while my viral load is 20?

Then secondly my wife with a cd4 count of 962 and undetectable viral load gave birth through caesarian 20 days before the actual due date. This was according to the doctors advice that before contractions begin is the safest time. The baby is normal and we are not breastfeeding. How long should he take nevirapine oral and what are the chances of him being positive?

Answer

Answer: Rebecca McDowall

Hi,

Thanks for your email.

Your CD4 count and viral load are both very good. A viral load of under 50 is considered ‘undetectable’. Can you explain to me what it is about these results that you don’t understand?

Congratulations on the birth of your son! Usually a baby will be given treatment for 4-6 weeks after being born. You should check with your doctor for exact timings.

You and your wife have taken all the precautions to prevent your child being born HIV positive. The risk of him being positive is very small- close to zero. He will need to go through testing to be sure, but it is very likely that he will be HIV negative.

Please see our guide to HIV and pregnancy for more information.