In a nutshell
This report published by the Ethics Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine discusses the reproductive options available to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients.
Some background
Approximately one third of HIV-infected individuals express a desire to have children. However, these individuals also need to reduce the risk of infecting their partner or future children with HIV. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) can reduce this risk. ART such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) involve the fertilization of an egg with sperm outside of the body. Anti-viral treatments can also reduce the risk of infecting others.
Methods & findings
This report aimed to summarize the various options available to HIV-infected individuals to reduce the risk of HIV transmission.
HIV-infected women who use anti-viral drugs and do not breastfeed can reduce the risk of HIV transmission to future children by 98%. Women can reduce HIV transmission to a male partner by using artificial insemination (insertion of perm directly into the womb using a tube). A less safe option may be having intercourse only when the woman’s viral load (amount of HIV in blood) is undetectable.
HIV-infected men can reduce the risk of transmission to an uninfected partner or future child by using ART such as IVF coupled with ICSI. Alternatively, males using anti-viral drugs can reduce the risk of transmission to an uninfected female.
The ART clinic chosen should have the resources available to assist with an HIV-positive patient. If the clinic does not have those resources, they should refer the couple to another clinic. An ART clinic should provide treatment to a HIV-infected individual who is willing to use risk-reducing therapies.
The bottom line
This report concluded that a couple affected by HIV should attend an ART clinic which has the necessary resources. The individuals should also be willing to take therapies which reduce transmission risk.
What’s next?
Consult your physician regarding the various ART options and risk-reducing therapies available.
Published By :
Fertility and Sterility
Date :
May 05, 2015
