Transmission Of Hiv/Aids From Mother To Baby Can Be Prevented!

December 1 is observed as World AIDS Day. But did you know that HIV/AIDS can attack anyone, including women? Women or mothers who are tested positive for HIV/AIDS can transmit the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, the fetus in the mother's womb gets food intake from the blood through the placenta. This event is a place where blood and viruses exchange. During childbirth, the baby can be infected from blood or fluids that come out of the mother's intimate organs that may have been swallowed by the baby. While during breastfeeding, the virus can be transmitted through breast milk, where HIV can be contained in breast milk in considerable quantities.

But you don't need to worry, because there are several ways to prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS from mother to baby. First, taking ARV drugs regularly. It is proven that within 6 months the amount of HIV in the blood has decreased and can even be undetected. Antiretroviral therapy can be started from 14 weeks of pregnancy, during delivery, and also to the baby for 4-6 weeks after birth. Second, undergoing the process of delivery by Caesarean section. This prevents the baby from the virus that is in the fluid that comes out of around the area of the mother's intimate organs. And lastly, giving artificial milk or formula, so that babies are not exposed to the HIV virus through breast milk.

But the main thing about it all is early detection. Because if the status is known from the start, then other preventive measures can be taken as soon as possible.

For mDoc users who want consultation related to HIV/AIDS or other health problems, you can consult health professionals with trusted medical personnel through the mDoc by mHealthbank application which can be downloaded on the Playstore and Appstore.