Can pregnant women infected with HIV reduce transmission risk to their child through ART?

The correct response recognizes that antiretroviral therapy (ART) significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission from a pregnant woman to her child, primarily when used throughout the entire course of the pregnancy and during delivery. While avoiding breastfeeding does contribute to reducing transmission risk, it is essential to highlight that the primary mechanism of preventing mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV is through consistent and effective use of ART.

ART helps lower the viral load in the mother's blood to undetectable levels, making it much less likely for the virus to be transmitted to the baby during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. In cases where the mother adheres to ART, the risk of transmission can be reduced to very low levels.

Concerning breastfeeding, it is important to note that while avoiding it can reduce transmission risk, the decision should be guided by comprehensive health advice. Many health organizations recommend that mothers on effective ART can breastfeed safely, as long as they maintain an undetectable viral load. Thus, while avoiding breastfeeding is one factor that contributes to transmission risk reduction, it is not the sole element, and ART plays a crucial overarching role in the process.

Offering postpartum care is also important for the ongoing health of both mother and child, but it does not negate