CLINICAL AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF PREGNANT WOMEN LIVING WITH HIV FOLLOWED UP AT THE SPECIALIZED CARE SERVICE OF A REFERENCE IN GOIÁS

Abstract

Introduction: AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) in pregnant women is considered a global public health problem. In Brazil, cases of pregnant women living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PWLHIV) have increased over the years; however, planned pregnancies significantly reduce vertical transmission of HIV. Objective: To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of PWLHIV and children exposed to HIV who were followed up at the Specialized Care Service of a Reference Hospital in Infectology in Goiás. Methods: Longitudinal epidemiological retrospective cohort study, carried out at a Reference Hospital in Infectology in Goiás, between May 2018 and November 2020, including PWLHIV and their respective children exposed to HIV. Results: Of the 140 PWLHIV, 26 (19%) used antiretroviral therapy irregularly during pregnancy, 88 (63%) were already aware of their HIV infection diagnosis before pregnancy, 125 (89%) had fewer than 6 prenatal visits, 86 (61%) had an undetectable HIV viral load in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, and cesarean delivery was prevalent (62%, n=87). Of the children exposed to HIV, 118 (84.3%) used oral antiretroviral prophylaxis. Regarding clinical evolution, 104 (74.3%) were uninfected, 35 (25%) were lost to follow-up, and 1 (0.7%) was transferred to another municipality and/or state. Conclusion: No vertical transmission was identified, however, loss of follow-up made it difficult to estimate the actual transmission rate. Brazil still has a long way to go to achieve the elimination of vertical transmission of HIV, thus, greater incentives for public policies on maternal and childcare are needed.