Abstract:
Background:
Maternal HIV infection is known to be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight
(LBW) and perinatal mortality, based on several studies. However, the conflicting effect of antiretroviral
therapy (ART) on these outcomes has not been thoroughly examined. Understanding this association is crucial
for guiding policy makers in developing more effective interventions to prevent mother-to-child HIV
transmission. The study aimed to assess the effect of maternal HIV infection on birth weight and perinatal
mortality, as well as investigate the impact of ART on these outcomes in HIV-infected women. To address
possible confounders, matching methods were employed.
Method:
In this study, we analyzed the effect of HIV infection on maternal health, birth outcomes, and infant health using
two contemporary cohorts of pregnant women: HIV-uninfected and HIV-infected.
Search and Selection:
Findings consistently indicated that infants born to HIV-positive mothers face increased risks, emphasizing the
need for urgent attention to improve neonatal health.
Results:
A total of 12 articles were critically appraised for this review. The articles were categorized into research (n=9)
and non-research (n=3) articles. Each article was scored using the John Hopkins critical appraisal tools for
research and non-research evidence, respectively. The scoring was calculated by dividing the number of correct
answers by the total number of answers and multiplying by 100. Out of the 12 articles, 11 scored above 60%,
meeting the cut-off of 55%, while one article scored 58%. All 12 articles met the inclusion criteria. Key findings
included:
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) emerged as a crucial intervention in reducing the risk of adverse
outcomes.
- Implementing expanded access to ART and routine prenatal HIV testing can identify and treat HIVpositive pregnant women, minimizing mother-to-child transmission during childbirth.
- Despite efforts to promote testing and treatment, a significant proportion of HIV-positive pregnant
women remain undetected, highlighting the need for enhanced screening programs.
- Improved obstetric care plays a vital role in optimizing neonatal outcomes, reducing complications
during childbirth and positively impacting both maternal and neonatal health.
Discussion:
The interventions mentioned aim to ensure that newborns have a healthy start, free from the adverse effects of
maternal HIV infection. The study's findings underscore the importance of understanding the impact of maternal
HIV infection on neonatal outcomes and advocate for comprehensive strategies to enhance neonatal health.
Public health interventions should prioritize expanded access to ART, routine prenatal HIV testing, and
improved obstetric care to mitigate the adverse effects of maternal HIV infection on newborns. By addressing
these factors, we can contribute to improved maternal and child health outcomes, reducing the burden of adverse
pregnancy outcomes, and promoting the overall well-being of neonates.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our review emphasizes the significance of understanding the impact of maternal HIV infection on
neonatal outcomes. Through the implementation of expanded access to ART, routine prenatal HIV testing, and
improved obstetric care, we can mitigate the adverse effects of maternal HIV infection on newborns and
enhance overall neonatal health. These findings hold important implications for public health interventions
aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes.
Keywords:
Maternal HIV infection, neonatal outcomes, adverse pregnancy outcomes, antiretroviral therapy, routine
prenatal HIV testing, improved obstetric care, low birth weight (LBW).