PERIPARTUM VERTICAL TRANSMISSION OF HIV: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF WOMEN WITH PRIOR ARV EXPOSURE AND ARV-NAÏVE WOMEN

Background: The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV remains a public health challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to compare the rates of vertical transmission among HIV-positive pregnant women with prior antiretroviral (ARV) exposure and those who were ARV-naïve.Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted in four hospitals in Jos, Nigeria. A total of 131 HIV-positive pregnant women were recruited, categorized into an exposed group (prior ARV exposure) and an unexposed group (ARV-naïve). Data were collected on demographic characteristics, ARV regimen, maternal viral load and infant outcomes. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing was utilized to determine HIV status in infants. The data was analysed using SPSS version 17. Descriptive statistics was used; continuous variables were summarized with mean, while discrete variables were summarized with numbers and percentages.Results: The study found a maternal-to-child transmission rate of 3.23%, significantly lower than the national average. The exposed group exhibited a transmission rate of 1.6%, compared to 4.9% in the unexposed group. The majority of subjects in both groups were of low parity and below 30 years of age. Furthermore, 98.38% of subjects in the index pregnancy received combined triple ARV therapy.Conclusion: The findings underscore the effectiveness of HAART in reducing vertical transmission rates. While the study highlights the importance of ARV adherence, further research is necessary to address limitations related to sample size and population representation, ensuring broader applicability of the results. Enhanced access to PMTCT programs is essential for improving maternal and infant health outcomes in Nigeria.