Contemplating Pregnancy?

The best prevention of perinatal transmission of HIV begins before pregnancy. Ideally, the HIV-positive partner(s) should have their HIV disease well-controlled and their medications reviewed before getting pregnant. Preconceptional counseling (counseling before pregnancy) and care is provided by qualified HIV and obstetrical (OB) providers to assist the couple to safely get pregnant with minimum risk to both partners and the planned baby.  

Contact your HIV provider to determine if your HIV disease is well controlled. If you need assistance finding a preconceptional care provider, please call the Illinois 24/7 Perinatal HIV Hotline at 1-800-439-4079.

PACPI recommends that HIV providers consider adding the following questions to their regular care visits to help assess the need for care in preparation for or to prevent pregnancy.

At each visit, provider should ask both men and women:

   1. Are you pregnant or at risk of pregnancy?
   2.  Do you want to be pregnant? 

 If the client is pregnant, they can be referred to specialty HIV/OB care providers. If the client is at risk of pregnancy and does not wish to be pregnant, the provider can help the client develop a contraception plan.

If the client desires to become pregnant, the provider can either provide preconceptional counseling or refer the client to the hotline to find a provider in their area. The preconceptional plan should include an assessment of present medications, co-morbid conditions, and past pregnancy history. Such individualized assessment is crucial to help prepare for a healthy pregnancy prior to conception.