What is the risk of vertical HIV transmission during pregnancy if the viral load is less than 1000 and the patient is on HAART?

When considering the risk of vertical transmission of HIV during pregnancy, a key factor is the maternal viral load. Research indicates that when a pregnant individual is under effective antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and has a viral load of less than 1000 copies/mL, the risk of transmission to the infant is significantly reduced. Studies have demonstrated that this lower viral load correlates with a vertical transmission rate of approximately 1-2%.

This reduced risk emphasizes the importance of maintaining viral suppression in pregnant individuals living with HIV, as effective treatment not only improves the health of the mother but also greatly diminishes the likelihood of passing the virus to the baby. It's critical for healthcare providers to continue monitoring and managing viral load throughout the pregnancy to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and child.