Birth Control and Pregnancy Management Among Women Living with HIV

Objective: This study aimed to determine the birth control methods preferred by women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) followed by our clinic and to review their pregnancy management strategies. Methods: The medical records of HIV-infected women followed by our clinic between 1999 and 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. The following parameters were recorded from medical files: Demographic characteristics, birth control methods used and the duration of usage, conception methods in those who became pregnant after being infected with HIV, whether the pregnancy was planned or not, the antiretroviral treatments used before pregnancy and whether treatment was modified during pregnancy, HIV-1 RNA and CD4+ T lymphocyte counts before delivery, type of delivery, prophylaxis given to the baby and the mother and its duration, and HIV serological status of the babies. Results: Out of 80 women actively followed by our clinic, 75 (93.7%) with available data were included in the study. The mean age of the cases was 43.5 +/- 11.4 (min=18-max=68). The number of cases using any birth control method was 51 (68%). The most common contraceptive method was a condom used by their partners (n=31, 60.7%). Thirty-six pregnancies developed in 25/60 (41.6%) sexually active cases not in the menopausal period and 33 babies were born. One baby was infected with HIV. Conclusion: Contraception methods in sexually active HIV-infected women should be chosen upon discussion between the healthcare provider and the patient. Close monitoring and standard care during pregnancy are critical for the long-term prognosis of both the mother and the baby.