Incident HIV during pregnancy and postpartum and risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Longitudinal Changes in Tenofovir and Tenofovir Diphosphate Concentrations Among Pregnant Women Using Oral PrEP for HIV Prevention: Findings From Durban, South Africa

BACKGROUND

Pregnant women are vulnerable to HIV acquisition. Oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is safe and effective for use during pregnancy. We describe PrEP adherence among pregnant women using multiple measures.

METHODS

We conducted a secondary data analysis among women enrolled in a study evaluating an adherence intervention for PrEP among those planning for and with pregnancy in South Africa. Our analysis included women who used PrEP and became pregnant. Longitudinal PrEP use was assessed using concentrations of tenofovir (TFV) in plasma, tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) in dried blood spots, and electronic pillcap data from quarterly visits. Plasma TFV ≤10 ng/mL and TFV-DP ≤16.6 fmol/punch were below quantifiable limits. Data were analyzed during prepregnancy (quarter before pregnancy) and pregnancy trimesters.

RESULTS

Among 35 women, 69% were 18-24 years old, 40% were nulliparous, and 94% did not know their partner's HIV serostatus. Median pillcap adherence was 55%-80% and was highest during prepregnancy (72%, interquartile range: 54%-86%) and third trimester (80%, interquartile range: 30%-94%). The proportion of women with quantifiable TFV was 47% (n = 8/17) prepregnancy and 33% (n = 9/27), 19% (n = 4/21), and 14% (n = 2/14) for trimesters 1-3, respectively. TFV-DP was detected in 75% of samples (n = 12/16) prepregnancy, and 50% (n = 13/26), 29% (n = 6/21), and 27% (n = 4/15) for trimesters 1-3, respectively. No women acquired HIV during pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

PrEP use declined during pregnancy by all measures. Discrepancies between pillcap measurements and drug concentrations could be due to physiologic changes during pregnancy or under- or overuse of the pillcaps. Determining what drug metabolite concentrations are needed to confer protection during pregnancy is important for optimizing counseling and prevention support.

"It gives me the strength and courage to take care of myself": a qualitative exploration of experiences with STI testing among women who initiated PrEP during pregnancy in Western Kenya

INTRODUCTION

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in pregnancy contribute to poor perinatal outcomes and increased HIV acquisition risk, underscoring the importance of delivering STI/HIV services within antenatal care. Few studies evaluate women's perspectives on the co-delivery of antenatal STI testing and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We sought to understand motivations for and experiences with STI testing among pregnant women who initiated HIV PrEP.

METHODS

We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) among a subset of women enrolled in a randomized trial in Western Kenya (NCT04472884) who initiated PrEP within antenatal clinics and tested for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) in pregnancy and/or postpartum. As part of parent study procedures, IDIs were conducted between September 2023 and April 2024. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed using deductive and inductive methods. The Health Belief Model guided exploration of STI testing experiences, motivations for testing and the impact of testing on PrEP use.

RESULTS

Overall, 39 women who initiated PrEP during pregnancy and tested for CT/NG participated in IDIs; six tested positive for CT and/or NG. Median age was 26 years (IQR 21-29), 77% of participants had >8 years of education, 15% were employed and 72% were married. Most (86%) did not know their partner's HIV status, and 82% persisted with PrEP use at 9 months postpartum. Perceived vulnerability to STI/HIV acquisition, fear of adverse outcomes from untreated infections (e.g. pregnancy loss or harm to baby) and desire to alleviate symptoms (e.g. abnormal discharge) motivated STI testing uptake when offered during antenatal visits. Provision of STI-related education, availability of STI services (i.e. immediate treatment, expedited partner therapy) and supportive interactions with providers promoted positive experiences with STI testing. STI testing encouraged health-promoting behaviours, including sustained PrEP use, even when STI results were negative, as testing made women feel proactively involved in preventing HIV/STI complications for themselves and their infants.

CONCLUSIONS

In this qualitative evaluation among women who initiated PrEP in pregnancy, STI testing encouraged PrEP use, even when results were negative. Incorporating STI testing within PrEP delivery in antenatal care represents an opportunity for addressing HIV/STI in this priority population.

Impact of male peer-led outreach on uptake of HIV testing among male partners of pregnant women in Uganda: a randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

Male partner HIV testing and engagement in antenatal care (ANC) is associated with improved clinical outcomes for men, pregnant women and infants. However, testing rates remain low among male partners of pregnant women receiving ANC in Africa. We evaluated the impact of male peer outreach to increase HIV testing among partners of pregnant women in Uganda.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized trial in Kampala, Uganda, enrolling an equal number of pregnant women with and without HIV from public ANC clinics who were randomized 1:1 to intervention or standard-of-care (SOC) with delayed intervention after 1 month. (ClinicalTrials.gov ID, NCT05388084). The intervention consisted of male peer counsellors calling male partners of consenting pregnant women and inviting them to test for HIV. In the SOC, pregnant women received an invitation letter to deliver to their partners for fast-track HIV testing, per national guidelines. We conducted an intention-to-treat analysis using modified Poisson regression, comparing the proportion of male partners tested for HIV by month 1 across arms overall and by female's HIV status. A secondary analysis compared the proportion tested for HIV by 3 months after both arms received the intervention.

RESULTS

Between May 2022 and March 2023, we enrolled 150 pregnant women (76 in intervention, 74 in SOC). At 1 month, 18% more males in the intervention arm tested for HIV compared to SOC (32% vs. 14%; risk difference [RD] = 0.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.05-0.31). This association remained significant after stratifying by female HIV status. HIV testing was 22% higher among male partners of HIV-negative women in the intervention arm compared to SOC (46% vs. 24%; RD = 0.22; 95% CI: 0.004-0.430) and 15% higher among partners of pregnant women with HIV (18% vs. 3%; RD = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.02-0.28). At 3 months, 50% (38/76) of male partners tested in the intervention versus 35% (26/74) in the SOC/delayed intervention (RD = 0.15; 95% CI: -0.01 to 0.31).

CONCLUSIONS

Male peer outreach is a promising intervention to increase knowledge of HIV status among partners of pregnant women. Additional support is needed to increase HIV testing among partners of women with HIV.

Storytelling sessions for PrEP/ART education and psychosocial support among expectant serodiscordant couples: results from a pilot feasibility trial in Zambézia Province, Mozambique

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is offered to pregnant HIV-uninfected women in serodiscordant relationships in Mozambique, yet uptake is still low. We conducted a randomized feasibility trial of PrEP education and psychosocial support to serodiscordant expectant couples via three storytelling sessions in two districts within Zambézia Province. Data were collected between December 2020 and December 2022. We recruited 64 couples (31 control and 33 intervention) from two health facilities. We assessed the intervention's effect on psychosocial metrics related to PrEP (stigma, treatment self-efficacy, treatment expectations, relationship satisfaction, social support), retention in clinical services, and participants' acceptability of each storytelling session. Among couples randomized to the intervention, 24 (73%) completed all three sessions. No impact was seen on median medication possession ratio (among women: 74.0% and 73.8% [p = 0.514]; among men: 78.3% and 75.4% [p = 0.543] for control and intervention groups, respectively). Surveys revealed no change in PrEP stigma, treatment self-efficacy, treatment expectations, or relationship satisfaction. In interviews, participants reported increased PrEP knowledge, improved trust, capacity, and motivation to remain adherent to their medications. Some described low PrEP awareness within their communities and suggested community-based educational sessions. In-person narrative-style storytelling could be an acceptable method of conveying PrEP information to serodiscordant couples in rural areas in Mozambique.

The Childbirth Experience of Pregnant Women Living with HIV Virus

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the childbirth satisfaction of pregnant women living with HIV virus (PWLWHIV) and its association with selected variables in order to improve it. Methods: A total of 82 PWLWHIV were interviewed at an Institute in Rio de Janeiro. Maternal satisfaction was measured using the Brazilian version of the Mackey Childbirth Satisfaction Rating Scale, which was translated to Brazilian Portuguese by Lopes, who validated the translated version. The Mackey scale is divided into six subscales: self-evaluation, partner, baby, midwives, doctors, and overall satisfaction. Results: The PWLWHIV experienced a good total childbirth satisfaction (score 133 out of 165) and good overall childbirth satisfaction (score 12 out of 15). The PWLWHIV also experienced a good self-satisfaction (score 37.3 out of 45), good satisfaction with partner (score 8.96 out of 10), good satisfaction with midwives (score 35.1 out of 45), and good satisfaction with doctors (score 31.2 out of 45). The PWLWHIV also experienced satisfaction with their babies (score 8.48 out of 10). Significant associations were found through univariable and multiple regression analysis, regarding complications with baby at birth (p < 0.001) on the total, overall, self, partner, midwife, and doctor subscales. Conclusions: PWLWHIV had a positive experience at childbirth in the public maternities units of Rio de Janeiro. Our findings indicate that complications regarding baby health at birth were the main factor associated with a negative experience.

Health services delivery factors affecting HIV retesting among pregnant women at 34 weeks gestation in Saboba District, Northern region, Ghana

BACKGROUND

Vertical transmission of HIV is a major global public health issue, particularly due to maternal HIV acquisition during pregnancy, challenges in enrolling pregnant women living with HIV into antiretroviral therapy programmes, and loss to follow-up. The factors influencing HIV retesting in pregnant women with an initial HIV-negative results are understudied. The study examined health service delivery factors affecting HIV retesting among pregnant women.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in six health facilities in the Saboba District in 2023. Pregnant women who initially tested HIV-negative and were attending antenatal clinics at 34 weeks gestation or later were randomly selected. Data was analyzed using Stata version 15.0. Logistic regression was used to examined the health service factors affecting HIV retesting at a 0.05 significant level.

RESULTS

Out of 445 pregnant women initially HIV-negative, only 21.1% were retested at 34 weeks gestation. Pregnant women receiving antenatal care at health centers were less likely to be retested [aOR = 0.34; CI: 0.14-0.84], while those who spent less time during ANC were more likely to retest [aOR = 2.58; CI: 1.33-5.01].

CONCLUSIONS

Improvement in HIV retesting requires reproductive health units to develop strategies to enhance coverage and reduce waiting times at health centers could encourage more pregnant women to retest for HIV.

Antiretroviral Use for HIV Prevention During Pregnancy: The Need to Strengthen Regulatory and Surveillance Systems in Africa

HIV-prevention efforts focusing on women of child-bearing potential are needed to end the HIV epidemic in the African region. The use of antiretroviral drugs as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a critical HIV prevention tool. However, safety data on new antiretrovirals during pregnancy are often limited because pregnant people are excluded from drug development studies. Calls from communities, healthcare professionals, and regulators to improve the information supporting decision-making around the use of medical products during pregnancy have been increasing. Post-marketing safety surveillance is an essential tool for detecting adverse outcomes and evaluating real-world, longer-term effects of drugs. Detecting and evaluating uncommon pregnancy outcomes requires large sample sizes, highlighting the benefits of and need for safety surveillance. Surveillance systems vary widely across Africa, and the need for enhanced surveillance of PrEP use during pregnancy highlights the limitations of current regulatory and surveillance systems. Challenges include weak regulation and insufficient resources. Pooling of resources and regulatory harmonization could address resource challenges. The African Medicines Agency, as a specialized agency of the African Union, has the potential to improve African medical product regulation, including post-marketing safety surveillance. This can strengthen regulation and ensure that market authorization holders meet their responsibility to invest in post-marketing surveillance systems, such as pregnancy registries. At the same time, independent post-marketing studies are needed to ensure generation of essential safety data. The Forum for Collaborative Research has initiated a project to facilitate interactions between regulators in Africa, the USA, and Europe, as well as other stakeholders, and to work toward consensus on safety data generation from PrEP during pregnancy before and after marketing authorization.

Prenatal exposure to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and birth, growth, and social-emotional developmental outcomes throughout early childhood in Kenya: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

As pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) implementation continues to scale up among pregnant people, accruing safety data following prenatal PrEP exposure remains important. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between prenatal PrEP exposure and birth and infant or child outcomes.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study analysed data from the PrEP Implementation for Mothers in Antenatal Care study (NCT03070600). Participants were eligible for inclusion if they were currently pregnant, not currently using PrEP, were aged 15 years or older, planned to remain in the study area, were not enrolled in other studies, and did not have HIV or tuberculosis. Participants enrolled during pregnancy at 20 maternal and child health clinics in western Kenya and were followed up until 9 months postpartum. Those who reported taking PrEP at any antenatal visits were identified as prenatally PrEP exposed. In an extension cohort, participants and their children were followed up until 36 months postpartum. Infant anthropometry and social-emotional development using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-SE), second edition were assessed by trained study nurses. Among a subset of participants, we confirmed prenatal PrEP exposure using tenofovir diphosphate concentrations in dried blood spots. Perinatal outcomes (birth, growth, and neurodevelopment) were the primary outcomes assessed.

FINDINGS

Between Jan 15, 2018, and Jul 31, 2019, 4063 female individuals were enrolled and included in the analysis, of whom 558 (13·7%) used PrEP during pregnancy, initiating at a median of 26 weeks' gestation (IQR 22-31) for a median duration of 9·6 weeks in pregnancy (5·7-15·0). Compared with PrEP-unexposed pregnancies, there was no difference in pregnancy loss (ie, miscarriage), stillbirth, preterm birth, or neonatal death among PrEP exposed pregnancies (all p>0·05). There were no differences in infant length or weight at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 9 months (all p>0·05) between children with and without prenatal PrEP exposure, including underweight, stunting, and wasting. Results were similar when analysed separately by trimester of PrEP initiation and duration on PrEP, and in a subset at 24 months, 30 months, and 36 months. Prenatal PrEP exposure was not associated with ASQ-SE scores at 24-months (p=0·12), 30-months (p=0·75), or 36-months (p=0·81). No differences in adverse perinatal and infant outcomes were found among Kenyan individuals with quantifiable prenatal tenofovir diphosphate exposure.

INTERPRETATION

We found no significant differences in adverse birth or infant or child outcomes for 3 years of follow-up by prenatal PrEP exposure status. These data support findings from previous studies that demonstrate the safety of oral PrEP use during pregnancy.

FUNDING

The National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease; Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; the National Institute of Nursing Research; the University of Washington's Center for AIDS Research Behavioral Sciences Core and Biometrics Core; and the Global Center for the Integrated Health of Women, Adolescents, and Children.

TRANSLATION

For the Swahili translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Preventing HIV in women in Africa

HIV incidence is declining globally, but around half of all new infections are in sub-Saharan Africa-where adolescent girls and young women bear a disproportionate burden of new infections. Those who sell sex are at particularly high risk. Despite declining incidence rates and availability of effective biomedical prevention tools, we are not on track, globally or in Africa, to achieve UNAIDS 2025 prevention targets. For those at risk, interventions that strengthen their motivation, capabilities and access to all available HIV prevention technologies are critical-for adolescent girls and women in particular, but also for epidemic control more broadly. Exciting possibilities for scaling up new and highly effective prevention technologies are close, but delivery, implementation and financing models need to be developed and urgently evaluated, in partnership with communities, or these opportunities may be lost. Here, we discuss the evolving landscape of biomedical prevention technologies for women in Africa, their implementation and financing, as well as priorities for HIV prevention research in this setting.

Postpartum women's prospective acceptability of long-acting HIV prevention approaches in Kenya: A qualitative study

Background

New long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis (LA-PrEP) options offer an alternative to daily oral PrEP, which poses difficulties for adherence, especially during pregnancy and postpartum. Yet, limited data exist on LA-PrEP acceptability among pregnant and postpartum women. We aimed to evaluate its acceptability and identify strategies to enhance it.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory qualitative study with postpartum women in five public health facilities in Kisumu and Siaya Counties, Kenya. In-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with women expressing high, low, and mixed LA-PrEP interest throughout pregnancy and postpartum. Inductive and deductive content analysis was used, and themes of acceptability were explored using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA).

Results

We conducted 70 IDIs with postpartum women between August 2023 and March 2024. The majority (62.9%) expressed consistently high interest in LA-PrEP. Most viewed LA-PrEP, especially every two-month injectables, as highly acceptable due to reduced pill burden, side effects, and dosing frequency. Concerns were raised regarding injectable PrEP safety for the baby during pregnancy and suitability of using the vaginal ring during delivery. Participants emphasized the importance of education on the safety of these methods during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and strategies for improving adherence, such as mobile reminders. Overall, women preferred LA-PrEP options over daily oral PrEP for convenience, effectiveness, and privacy, with healthcare provider education seen as crucial.

Discussion

We found high acceptability of LA-PrEP options among postpartum women with experience taking PrEP during pregnancy. The findings reveal diverse preferences and key factors influencing acceptability, including safety, discretion, and convenience.

The effect of STI screening during pregnancy on vertical transmission of HIV and adverse pregnancy outcomes in South Africa: a modelling study

INTRODUCTION

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of vertical HIV transmission and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. In South Africa, syndromic management is the standard of care for STI management. We assessed the potential impact of point-of-care (POC) screening for curable STIs (Chlamydia trachomatis [CT], Trichomonas vaginalis [TV] and Neisseria gonorrhoeae [NG]) during pregnancy on vertical HIV transmission and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes.

METHOD

We developed a static mathematical model to estimate the impact of syndromic management compared to POC screening of STIs in pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in South Africa over one calendar year (2022). Our model assumptions regarding the effect of CT, NG and TV on adverse pregnancy/birth outcomes and vertical HIV transmission were informed by two separate meta-analyses that we conducted. Local studies informed estimates of STI prevalence, POC screening uptake and treatment, and sensitivity of syndromic management.

RESULTS

In the absence of POC screening for curable STIs, 25.5% of pregnant women without HIV and 34.6% of pregnant women living with HIV were estimated to have undiagnosed and untreated STIs. In the POC scenario, 92% (95% CI: 85-100%) of STIs were diagnosed and treated during pregnancy, reducing antenatal maternal HIV incidence by 10.0% (95% CI: 1.0-20.1%). Overall, vertical HIV transmission was anticipated to reduce by 8.6% (5.2-13.8%), with reductions of 20.9% (15.2-27.0%) at birth and 2.5% (-0.9% to 9.0%) postnatally, in the POC screening scenario compared to current syndromic management. POC screening of curable STIs is further estimated to reduce the incidence of stillbirth by 10.1% (1.3-18.7%), preterm delivery by 6.3% (3.4-9.7%), infants born small for gestational age by 2.7% (0.7-4.9%) and low birth weight by 9.1% (0.9-18%).

CONCLUSIONS

POC STI screening and treatment may modestly reduce maternal HIV incidence, vertical HIV transmission, and the risk of adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes, and would substantially reduce the burden of curable STIs in pregnancy. The study provides evidence to move beyond the syndromic management of STIs in South Africa, particularly in antenatal care.

HIV retesting uptake and incidence during pregnancy and breastfeeding period among women in sub-Saharan Africa

To prevent and reduce mother-to-child transmission of HIV and maternal morbidity and mortality, the World Health Organization currently requires retesting for HIV during pregnancy and postpartum. This was a systematic review and meta-analysis in which PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and clinicaltrials.gov were searched for articles published between January 2005 and February 2024. Retesting uptake was defined as the number of women who tested for HIV during pregnancy/breastfeeding periods following an initial HIV-negative test during these periods. Using random-effects models, we computed the pooled prevalence of HIV retesting uptake, incidence rates (IRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A sensitivity analysis was done by excluding studies that tested women during labor and reported 100% retesting uptake. A total of 37 studies with 1,999,621 women were analyzed. Overall, the pooled prevalence of HIV retesting uptake was 89.1% (95%CI, 81.0-95.2). Retesting uptake was significantly higher during breastfeeding compared to pregnancy (93.3% vs. 89.9%; P < 0.001). A sensitivity analysis showed that overall retesting uptake was 73.9% (95%CI, 60.1-83.8). A total of 1302 (0.2%) women acquired HIV. Twenty-two studies reported an IR; the overall pooled IR was 4.3/100 person-year (PY; 95%CI, 3.4-5.2/100 PY). The HIV incidence rate was significantly higher during pregnancy compared to breastfeeding (5.9/100 vs. 3.4/100 PY; P < 0.001). One to three in 10 women in sub-Saharan Africa do not retest for HIV following a negative test during pregnancy or breastfeeding periods. Emphasizing HIV retesting during these periods is critical to eliminate pediatric HIV given that the overall IR is beyond the WHO threshold (3.0/100 PY) for a substantial risk of HIV transmission.

Preferences for and acceptability of long-acting HIV prevention products among pregnant and lactating women accessing health services in Kenya: a mixed method cross-sectional analysis

BACKGROUND

Increased risk of HIV acquisition during pregnancy and lactation among women is evident, necessitating their inclusion in the evaluation of new HIV prevention interventions. Pregnant and postpartum women specifically face challenges with oral PrEP associated with stigma, and the burden of using other tablets. Long-acting products may address challenges related to oral PrEP, however, there is limited data on product-specific preferences and acceptability among pregnant and lactating women.

METHODS

We conducted a mixed-method study to assess the preferences and acceptability of long-acting PrEP modalities either under development or already established among pregnant and lactating women. We conducted quantitative surveys (n = 434) and in-depth interviews (n = 80) in central and western Kenya. We used descriptive statistics and categorical variables to summarize frequencies and proportions. Inductive and deductive content analytic approaches were used for in-depth interviews.

RESULTS

The median age of respondents was 25 years (IQR 19.3-31.0). Majority were married (263/434, 61%), had completed high school (222/434, 51%), with no condoms use in the prior 3 months (348/434, 80%). The most preferred PrEP formulations were injectable (251/434, 57%) and implantable (175/434, 40%) options. Participants who preferred injectable PrEP had 8.56 times higher odds of considering ease of use as a reason. (aOR = 8.56, 95% CI [3.81-20.48]) and 3.71 odds of choosing perceived discreteness (aOR = 3.71, 95% CI (1.57-9.97)) as their preference reasons. Participants who preferred Implant for HIV prevention had 2.31 odds of considering it due to perceived effectiveness in preventing HIV as a preference reason (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI (1.21-4.66)) and 2.53-fold of considering discreteness as a preference reason (aOR = 2.53, 95% CI (1.46-4.59)). From the in-depth interviews, women reported prospective acceptability due to the perceived convenience of LA products, perceived effectiveness, reduced cost, improved privacy, and reduced stigma. Women had concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of the products during pregnancy and lactation.

CONCLUSION

Acceptability of LA products underscores the importance of considering the unique needs of pregnant and breastfeeding women in the development of future prevention interventions. Aligning preferences and needs would enhance the uptake and adherence outcomes of HIV prevention products.

Predictors of maternal HIV acquisition during pregnancy and lactation in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and narrative synthesis

OBJECTIVES

To eliminate vertical transmission of HIV, global institutions recommend using a risk-guided approach for HIV prevention services in antenatal and postnatal settings. Identifying predictors of maternal HIV acquisition can inform the development of risk-guided approaches, but individual studies of predictors can have limited power and generalizability.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and narrative synthesis to identify common predictors of maternal HIV acquisition in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We searched four databases for full-text articles that estimated associations between at least one predictor and risk of HIV acquisition among pregnant and/or lactating women (PLW) in SSA. We restricted our synthesis to predictors assessed in at least four study populations. For these predictors, we summarized how each predictor was defined and used vote counting and descriptive statistics to characterize overall trends.

RESULTS

We identified 26 eligible publications that summarized results from 24 unique studies. Studies were implemented in 12 countries between 1988 and 2021 and enrolled a total of 164,480 PLW at risk of acquiring HIV. Of the 66 predictors evaluated, 16 met our inclusion criteria. Estimated associations tended to be imprecise and variability in how predictors were measured precluded meta-analyses. We observed trends towards a higher risk of maternal HIV acquisition among young women and women who reported early coital debut, multiple partnerships, sexually transmitted infections, being unaware of partner HIV status, or having a partner living with HIV. In most studies, PLW in stable, monogamous relationships experienced a lower risk of acquiring HIV than those who were single, separated, or in a polygynous marriage. HIV risk perception, condom use, and vaginal drying were also commonly associated with HIV acquisition risk.

CONCLUSIONS

In our systematic review and narrative synthesis, we identified several easily measured characteristics that were associated with HIV acquisition among PLW in multiple study populations across SSA. Such findings can support the development and refinement of risk-guided approaches for HIV prevention in the region.

Uptake and Persistence of Safer Conception Strategies Among South African Women Planning for Pregnancy

Safer conception strategies can minimize HIV acquisition during periconception periods among women living in HIV-endemic areas. We examined uptake and predictors of persistent use of the same safer conception strategy among a cohort of HIV-uninfected South African women ages 18-35 years planning for pregnancy with a partner living with HIV or of unknown HIV-serostatus. The safer conception strategies we evaluated included oral PrEP, condomless sex limited to peak fertility, and waiting for a better time to have a child (until, for example, the risks of HIV acquisition are reduced and/or the individual is prepared to care for a child); persistence was defined as using the same safer conception strategy from the first visit through 9 months follow-up. Modified Poisson regression models were used to examine predictors of persistent use of the same strategy. The average age of 227 women in our cohort was 24.6 (range: 18.0, 35.7) years. In this cohort, 121 (74.2%) women reported persisting in the same strategy through 9 months. Employment and HIV knowledge were associated with the persistent use of any strategy. Our results highlight the need to provide safer conception services to women exposed to HIV during periconception periods. Findings also offer some insights into factors that might influence persistent use. Further research is needed to better understand how to involve male partners and how their involvement might influence women's consistent use of safer conception strategies during periconception periods.

Prevalence and correlates of prenatal HIV testing among female sex workers in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Female sex workers (FSWs) face a significant and persistent risk of contracting HIV. While evidence indicates high rates of pregnancy among FSWs in sub-Saharan Africa, studies on the coverage of HIV testing during pregnancy among them are sparse. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of prenatal HIV testing and determine the associated factors among FSWs in Nigeria.

METHODS

This study was a secondary data analysis of the 2020 Integrated Biological & Behavioural Surveillance Survey (IBBSS) among key populations in Nigeria. We performed weighted descriptive statistics and multivariable binary logistic regression to assess the associations between prenatal HIV testing and sociodemographic characteristics, risk behaviours, HIV knowledge and risk awareness, stigma, and access to healthcare.

RESULTS

Of the 1598 FSWs included in the study, 71.0% (95%CI = 68.7%-73.1%) had HIV testing during their last pregnancy. In the regression model, tertiary education (aOR = 2.98, 95%CI = 1.48-6.01), consistent condom use (aOR = 1.95, 95%CI = 1.39-2.75), and receipt of antenatal care (aOR = 35.52, 95%CI = 23.40-53.92) were associated with higher odds of prenatal HIV testing. Compared with the South South geopolitical zone, FSW residing in South East (aOR = 3.38, 95%CI = 1.80-6.35), South West (aOR = 2.97, 95%CI = 1.88-4.68), North Central (aOR = 4.43, 95%CI = 2.80-7.01), North East (aOR = 4.22, 95%CI = 1.64-10.34), North West (aOR = 4.40, 95%CI = 2.59-7.48) had higher odds of reporting prenatal HIV testing. However, being a non-brothel-based FSW (aOR = 0.66, 95%CI = 0.47-0.92), and engaging in sex work during pregnancy (aOR = 0.45, 95%CI = 0.31-0.66) were significantly associated with lower odds of prenatal HIV testing.

CONCLUSIONS

The prenatal HIV testing among FSWs in this study was suboptimal. The results highlight the need to improve access to antenatal care and implement regional and typology-specific interventions to bridge the gap in prenatal HIV testing among FSWs.

Acceptability of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring and Daily Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) during Pregnancy in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe

Pregnant and lactating persons in sub-Saharan Africa face a heightened risk of HIV acquisition, due to biological and behavioral factors, combined with limited access to prevention and treatment services. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and the dapivirine vaginal ring are promising tools for HIV prevention, and the ring's recent approval in multiple African countries represents a significant advancement in expanding access to HIV prevention. In a nested qualitative study within the MTN-042 trial, we explored the acceptability of study products among pregnant persons in the second and early third trimesters. Interviews were conducted privately, using a semi-structured guide with 77 participants, in participants' preferred language. Topics explored included product acceptability (using the theoretical framework of acceptability), user experience, satisfaction, disclosure, community attitudes, and sexual activity during pregnancy. Interview transcripts were analyzed using Dedoose software. We observed positive attitudes among participants towards the study products, which they found generally user-friendly, despite the added complexities of using them during pregnancy. Participants recognized that consistent and correct use would provide protection for both them and their unborn children. Although initial concerns existed, most of these worries dissipated over time, with study staff support and increased product use experience. These findings emphasize the importance of continued surveillance, support, and education to ensure the successful rollout of new HIV prevention measures during pregnancy.

A Review and Economic Analysis of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring as HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for Women, to Inform South African Public-Sector Guidelines

BACKGROUND

South Africa has a high HIV incidence and oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is available as public-sector standard of care. Access to alternative prevention methods for women may further reduce HIV acquisition.

SETTING

South African public sector.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search for high-quality up-to-date guidelines recommending dapivirine rings as PrEP using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation -Adolopment process. We appraised the systematic review and randomized controlled trial (RCT) evidence underpinning the selected guideline's recommendations and conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation evidence-to-decision framework guided the adaptation of source guideline recommendations, according to our local context.

RESULTS

We identified the 2021 World Health Organization PrEP Guidelines, informed by 2 placebo-controlled RCTs, which were included in a contemporaneous systematic review. There were 23 fewer HIV acquisitions per 1000 clients with dapivirine ring vs placebo (95% confidence interval: 10 to 34), with no increase in adverse events (moderate certainty evidence). We found no RCTs comparing dapivirine to oral PrEP or among adolescent/pregnant/breastfeeding clients. Dapivirine is less cost-effective than oral PrEP at $14.59/ring, at the current price.

CONCLUSIONS

The source guideline recommendation was adapted for the local context. Dapivirine ring seems to be less efficacious than oral PrEP, although comparative studies are lacking. Data on adolescents and pregnancy are also lacking, currently limiting the use of dapivirine as an alternative for women unable to take oral PrEP. At the current price, dapivirine is not cost-effective and unaffordable for inclusion in the South African Essential Medicines List.

The Retrospective Implementation of Standardized In Utero HIV Exposure Definitions Using Routinely Collected Public Sector Data Across the Western Cape Province, South Africa

Using the Data Evaluation and Preparation for HIV-Exposed Uninfected Child Cohorts project's standardized child HIV exposure definitions, 64%, 64% and 90% of children exposed to HIV in utero could be classified as HIV-uninfected with moderate or high certainty at the ages of 1 and 3 years and at the time of first infectious disease hospitalization, respectively. These definitions can be applied retrospectively to routine datasets with linked mother-child data.

Preferences for pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery among HIV-negative pregnant and breastfeeding women in Zambia: evidence from a discrete choice experiment

Introduction

Pregnant and breastfeeding women at substantial risk for HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa can benefit from biomedical interventions such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We estimated the benefit that pregnant and breastfeeding women may derive from PrEP service delivery in order to guide PrEP roll-out in the target population in Zambia.

Methods

Between September and December 2021, we conducted a discrete choice experiment (DCE) among a convenient sample of 389 pregnant and breastfeeding women not living with HIV in Lusaka, Zambia. Women aged 18 years or older, with a documented negative HIV result in their antenatal card responded to a structured questionnaire containing 12 choice sets on service delivery attributes of PrEP: waiting time at the facility, travel time to the facility dispensing PrEP, location for PrEP pick-up, health care provider attitude and PrEP supply at each refill. Mixed logit regression analysis was used to determine the participant's willingness to trade off one attribute of PrEP for the other at a 5% significance level. Willingness to wait (WTW) was used to determine the relative utility derived from each attribute against waiting time.

Results

Waiting time at the facility, travel time to the facility, health care provider attitude and amount of PrEP supply at each refill were important attributes of PrEP service delivery (all p < 0.01). Participants preferred less waiting time at the facility (β = -0.27, p < 0.01). Women demonstrated a strong preference for a 3-months' supply of PrEP (β = 1.69, p < 0.01). They were willing to wait for 5 h at the facility, walk for more than an hour to a facility dispensing PrEP, encounter a health care provider with a negative attitude in order to receive PrEP enough for 3 months.

Conclusion

Patient-centered approaches can help to inform the design and implementation of PrEP services among pregnant and breastfeeding women. In this study, we found that a reduction in clinic visits-including through multi-month dispensing of PrEP-could improve uptake of services in antenatal and postnatal settings.

Involvement of Male Partners in Sustaining Interventions for Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV Among Women with HIV

Background and Objective

Although male partners are eager to support the implementation of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV programs, several obstacles prevent them from participating. The purpose of this study was to explore the support of male partners of HIV-positive women in sustaining the implementation of PMTCT interventions.

Methods

This study adopted a qualitative approach. The case study research design was used to generate an in-depth understanding of the factors that hinder male participation in PMTCT interventions. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to 20 sample participants. Data was collected from two focus group discussions and analyzed using open coding. Trustworthiness was achieved by credibility, transferability, and confirmability. Adherence to ethical principles was upheld.

Results

Findings revealed two themes, perceived practices that hinder the provision of support and perceived support provided to sustain PMTCT intervention during childbirth. Sustaining PMTCT interventions included how the male partner adheres to interventions that prevent the transmission of the virus, like consistent condom use, especially during breastfeeding, support in exclusive breastfeeding, adherence to ART, and limiting the use of cultural practices.

Conclusion and Global Health Implications

The involvement of males in the interventions of PMTCT has been found to improve the sustainability of eliminating transmission of the virus to the baby. All clinics were recommended to be men user-friendly to encourage men to accompany their partners. Men are to be actively involved during decision-making and physical examination, where possible. Workshops and information-sharing sessions for men forums and community members on PMTCT interventions to be conducted.

Cohort profile: Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital maternal HIV cohort, Johannesburg, South Africa

PURPOSE

The Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital (RMMCH) maternal HIV cohort originated from data systems that were developed to support HIV-related birth care and track outcomes of a complete birth cohort of HIV-exposed infants at Rahima Moosa Hospital and their mothers living with HIV.

PARTICIPANTS

Supported by the Empilweni Services and Research Unit, maternal and infant data from 13 654 pregnant women living with HIV who delivered their infants (and a subset also attended antenatal care) were collected at RMMCH in Johannesburg, South Africa since 2013. Maternal data were collected using counsellor-administered interviews and the 2013-2018 subset of this cohort was linked to the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) national HIV cohort-a longitudinal cohort of people living with HIV accessing care in the public sector antiretroviral therapy programme in South Africa that can observe national access to HIV care through laboratory testing data.

FINDINGS TO DATE

Topics addressed by the cohort include antenatal care history, HIV treatment exposure, delivery/birth management, prophylaxis and maternal blood results relevant to HIV captured at delivery. The cohort was also one of the first to describe implementation of early infant diagnosis procedures in South Africa including evaluations of novel point-of-care testing strategies demonstrating improvements in uptake of HIV care among infants accessing point-of-care services.

FUTURE PLANS

Annual linkage of infant delivery and testing data to longitudinal laboratory test data in the NHLS national HIV cohort is planned to allow for analysis of both infant continuity of care outcomes and as well as evaluation of maternal-infant pair treatment and mobility outcomes in the post partum and later period.

Prevalence of Repeat Prenatal HIV Screening in New York State

Description: New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) recommends that all pregnant patients receive human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) screening during pregnancy. This study assessed the prevalence of repeat prenatal HIV testing and factors associated with receipt of the recommended tests. Methods: Data from the NYSDOH newborn screening program were used to randomly select pregnant persons without HIV who delivered a liveborn infant in 2017. Receipt of repeat testing was defined as an initial HIV test in the first or second trimesters and the final in the third trimester (relaxed); or an initial test in the first trimester and the final in the third trimester (strict). Relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated in bivariate analyses. Adjusted RRs were calculated to determine associations between demographic and clinical factors and receipt of repeat HIV testing. Results: The cohort included 2,225 individuals. Roughly one quarter (24%) received the recommended tests in the first or second and third trimesters and 17% received them in the first and third trimesters. Individuals who reported Hispanic or Asian race/ethnicities, had government-funded insurance, started prenatal care in the first trimester, delivered in New York City, or received prenatal hepatitis C virus screening were significantly more likely to receive repeat testing using either definition. Conclusions: Despite the benefits and cost-effectiveness, the prevalence of repeat prenatal HIV screening during the third trimester remains persistently low. Improved messaging and targeted education and resources to assist prenatal providers could reinforce the importance of repeat testing and reduce residual perinatal HIV transmission.

Preferences and uptake of home-based HIV self-testing for maternal retesting in Kenya

OBJECTIVE

To compare preferences, uptake, and cofactors for unassisted home-based oral self-testing (HB-HIVST) versus clinic-based rapid diagnostic blood tests (CB-RDT) for maternal HIV retesting.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort.

METHODS

Between November 2017 and June 2019, HIV-negative pregnant Kenyan women receiving antenatal care were enrolled and given a choice to retest with HB-HIVST or CB-RDT. Women were asked to retest between 36 weeks gestation and 1-week post-delivery if the last HIV test was <24 weeks gestation or at 6 weeks postpartum if ≥24 weeks gestation, and self-report on retesting at a 14-week postpartum.

RESULTS

Overall, 994 women enrolled and 33% (n = 330) selected HB-HIVST. HB-HIVST was selected because it was private (n = 224, 68%), convenient (n = 211, 63%), and offered flexibility in the timing of retesting (n = 207, 63%), whereas CB-RDT was selected due to the trust of providers to administer the test (n = 510, 77%) and convenience of clinic testing (n = 423, 64%). Among 905 women who reported retesting at follow-up, 135 (15%) used HB-HIVST. Most (n = 595, 94%) who selected CB-RDT retested with this strategy, compared to 39% (n = 120) who selected HB-HIVST retesting with HB-HIVST. HB-HIVST retesting was more common among women with higher household income and those who may have been unable to test during pregnancy (both retested postpartum and delivered <37 weeks gestation) and less common among women who were depressed. Most women said they would retest in the future using the test selected at enrollment (99% [n = 133] HB-HIVST; 93% [n = 715] CB-RDT-RDT).

CONCLUSIONS

While most women preferred CB-RDT for maternal retesting, HB-HIVST was acceptable and feasible and could be used to expand HIV retesting options.

The contribution of intimate partner violence to vertical HIV transmission: a modelling analysis of 46 African countries

BACKGROUND

Addressing gender inequities could be key to the elimination of vertical transmission of HIV. Women experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) might be at an increased risk of vertical transmission due to their vulnerability to HIV acquisition and barriers to access to and retention in care. Sub-Saharan Africa, where IPV burden is among the highest globally, accounts for most new paediatric HIV infections. We aimed to examine the proportion of excess vertical transmission attributable to IPV in this region.

METHODS

In this modelling analysis, we created a probability tree model of vertical HIV transmission among women aged 15-49 years in 46 African countries. We estimated the proportion of vertical transmission attributable to past-year physical or sexual IPV, or both, as an age-standardised population attributable fraction (PAF) and as excess vertical transmission risk per 1000 births among women experiencing IPV. We incorporated perinatal and postnatal vertical transmission among women who acquired HIV before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and during breastfeeding. Fertility, HIV prevalence, HIV incidence, antiretroviral therapy (ART) uptake, and ART retention varied in the model by women's IPV experience. The model was parameterised using UNAIDS' 2023 Spectrum model data, WHO's Global Database on Violence Against Women, and the peer-reviewed literature. Uncertainty intervals (95% UI) were calculated through 1000 Monte Carlo simulations.

FINDINGS

Across 46 countries 13% (95% UI 6-21) of paediatric HIV infections in 2022 were attributed to IPV, corresponding to over 22 000 paediatric infections. The PAF ranged from 4% (2-7) in Niger to 28% (13-43) in Uganda. The PAF was highest among girls aged 15-19 years (20%, 8-33) and lowest among women aged 45-49 years (6%, 3-9). In southern Africa, where women's HIV prevalence is highest (23%), IPV led to 11 (5-20) additional infections per 1000 births among women affected by IPV.

INTERPRETATION

IPV might be responsible for one in eight paediatric HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa. Ending IPV could accelerate vertical transmission elimination, especially among young women who bear the highest burden of violence.

FUNDING

Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Canada Research Chair, and Fonds de recherche du Québec-Santé.

TRANSLATIONS

For the French, Georgian and Spanish translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Prophylaxis and treatment of HIV infection in pregnancy, Swedish guidelines 2024

In May 2024, the Swedish Reference Group on Antiviral Therapy updated the guidelines on management of HIV infection in pregnancy. The most important recommendations and revisions were: (i) ART during pregnancy should be started as early as possible and continue after delivery; (ii) Suppressive ART should normally not be modified; (iii) The treatment target of HIV RNA <20 copies/ml remains; (iv) Dolutegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF is the first-line drug combination also in pregnant women and women planning pregnancy; (v) There is no evidence of an increased risk of neural tube defects associated with dolutegravir; (vi) Mode of delivery for women with effective ART and HIV RNA <200 copies/ml should follow standard obstetric procedures; (vii) Caesarean section is recommended if HIV RNA ≥200 copies/ml; (viii) Scalp electrode, foetal blood sampling and/or vacuum delivery should be used on strict indications, but does not necessitate intensified infant prophylaxis; (ix) Management and mode of delivery in case of premature or full-term rupture of membranes should follow standard obstetric procedures; (x) Recommended infant antiretroviral prophylaxis has been updated; (xi) The duration of infant antiretroviral prophylaxis (gestational age ≥35 weeks and mother on effective ART and HIV RNA <200 copies/ml) has been changed from 4 to 2 weeks; (xii) Infants born to women with HIV RNA ≥200 copies/ml should receive 4 weeks of combination prophylaxis; (xiii) Fertility evaluation and assisted reproduction should be offered to women on suppressive ART according to the same principles as for other women; (xiv) Women living with HIV should still be advised against breastfeeding; (xv) Women who nevertheless opt to breastfeed should be offered intensified support and follow-up.

Safety and pharmacokinetics of subcutaneous administration of broadly neutralizing anti-HIV-1 monoclonal antibodies (bNAbs), given to HIV-1 exposed, uninfected neonates and infants: study protocol for a phase I trial

BACKGROUND

The ambitious goal to eliminate new pediatric HIV infections by 2030 requires accelerated prevention strategies in high-risk settings such as South Africa. One approach could be pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with broadly neutralizing anti-HIV-1 monoclonal antibodies (bNAbs). The aim of our study is to define the optimal dose(s), the ideal combination(s) of bNAbs in terms of potency and breadth, and timing of subcutaneous (SC) administration(s) to prevent breast milk transmission of HIV.

METHODS

Two bNAbs, CAP256V2LS and VRC07-523LS, will be assessed in a sequential and randomized phase I, single-site, single-blind, dose-finding trial. We aim to investigate the 28-day safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) profile of incrementally higher doses of these bNAbs in breastfeeding HIV-1 exposed born without HIV neonates alongside standard of care antiretroviral (ARV) medication to prevent (infants) or treat (mothers) HIV infection. The trial design includes 3 steps and 7 arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 6b) with 8 infants in each arm. The first step will evaluate the safety and PK profile of the bNAbs when given alone as a single subcutaneous (SC) administration at increasing mg/kg body weight doses within 96 h of birth: arms 1, 2 and 3 at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg of CAP256V2LS, respectively; arms 4 and 5 at doses of 20 and 30 mg/kg of VRC07-523LS, respectively. Step two will evaluate the safety and PK profile of a combination of the two bNAbs administered SC at fixed doses within 96 h of birth. Step three will evaluate the safety and PK profile of the two bNAbs administered SC in combination at fixed doses, after 3 months. Arms 1 and 6 will follow sequential recruitment, whereas randomization will occur sequentially between arms (a) 2 & 4 and (b) 3 & 5. Before each randomization, a safety pause will allow review of safety data of the preceding arms.

DISCUSSION

The results of this trial will guide further studies on bNAbs to prevent breast milk transmission of HIV.

PROTOCOL VERSION

Version 4.0 dated 15 March 2024.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR): PACTR202205715278722, 21 April 2022; South African National Clinical Trial Registry (SANCTR): DOH-27-062022-6058.

Evaluating the performance of a risk assessment score tool to predict HIV acquisition among pregnant and postpartum women in Kenya

BACKGROUND

Clinical risk score tools require validation in diverse settings and populations before they are widely implemented. We aimed to externally validate an HIV risk assessment tool for predicting HIV acquisition among pregnant and postpartum women. In the context of prevention of mother-to-child transmission programs, risk score tools could be used to prioritize retesting efforts and delivery of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to pregnant and postpartum women most at risk for HIV acquisition while minimizing unnecessary perinatal exposure.

METHODS

Data from women enrolled in a cross-sectional study of programmatic HIV retesting and/or receiving maternal and child health care services at five facilities in Western Kenya were used to validate the predictive ability of a simplified risk score previously developed for pregnant/postpartum women. Incident HIV infections were defined as new HIV diagnoses following confirmed negative or unknown status during pregnancy. Predictive performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and Brier score.

RESULTS

Among 1266 women with 35 incident HIV infections, we found an AUC for predicting HIV acquisition of 0.60 (95% CI, 0.51, 0.69), with a Brier score of 0.27. A risk score >6 was associated with a 2.9-fold increase in the odds of HIV acquisition (95% CI, 1.48, 5.70; p = 0.002) vs scores ≤6. Women with risk scores >6 were 27% (346/1266) of the population but accounted for 52% of HIV acquisitions. Syphilis, age at sexual debut, and unknown partner HIV status were significantly associated with increased risk of HIV in this cohort.

CONCLUSION

The simplified risk score performed moderately at predicting risk of HIV acquisition in this population of pregnant and postpartum women and may be useful to guide PrEP use or counseling.

Depression Among Pregnant and Breastfeeding Persons Participating in Two Randomized Trials of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring and Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe

Depression is associated with lower adherence to oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV, but data are not currently available on how depression may affect use of other HIV prevention methods including the dapivirine vaginal ring (DVR). We conducted a mixed methods study using data from the Microbicide Trials Network (MTN) 042/DELIVER (n = 558) and MTN-043/B-PROTECTED (n = 197) studies to describe the prevalence of depressive symptoms and explore how depressive symptoms may have influenced attitudes about use of the monthly DVR and once-daily oral PrEP tablet among pregnant and breastfeeding persons, respectively, in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Eleven participants had high Edinburgh Postnatal Depression scores ≥ 10 in MTN-042/DELIVER (2%) and four participants (2%) in MTN-043/B-PROTECTED. In interviews with 9 participants who had high scores (6 DVR, 3 oral PrEP), those with depressive symptoms described overlapping stressors which were magnified by job loss and economic instability during the COVID-19 pandemic, and by experiences of pregnancy/postpartum. These participants experienced a lack of support from partners or family members, and conflict with partners related to trust, and infidelity. While we did not find evidence of a change in product adherence, there was a strong sense of commitment and motivation to use the study products for protection from HIV for participants themselves and their baby. Although lack of social support is usually an obstacle to adherence, in this study, the participants' lives and relationships seemed to have reinforced the need for HIV prevention and motivated women to protect themselves and their babies from HIV.

Pathogenesis of viral infections during pregnancy

SUMMARYViral infections during pregnancy are associated with significant adverse perinatal and fetal outcomes. Pregnancy is a unique immunologic and physiologic state, which can influence control of virus replication, severity of disease, and vertical transmission. The placenta is the organ of the maternal-fetal interface and provides defense against microbial infection while supporting the semi-allogeneic fetus via tolerogenic immune responses. Some viruses, such as cytomegalovirus, Zika virus, and rubella virus, can breach these defenses, directly infecting the fetus and having long-lasting consequences. Even without direct placental infection, other viruses, including respiratory viruses like influenza viruses and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, still cause placental damage and inflammation. Concentrations of progesterone and estrogens rise during pregnancy and contribute to immunological adaptations, placentation, and placental development and play a pivotal role in creating a tolerogenic environment at the maternal-fetal interface. Animal models, including mice, nonhuman primates, rabbits, and guinea pigs, are instrumental for mechanistic insights into the pathogenesis of viral infections during pregnancy and identification of targetable treatments to improve health outcomes of pregnant individuals and offspring.

Infant Feeding for Persons Living With and at Risk for HIV in the United States: Clinical Report

Pediatricians and pediatric health care professionals caring for infants born to people living with and at risk for HIV infection are likely to be involved in providing guidance on recommended infant feeding practices. Care team members need to be aware of the HIV transmission risk from breastfeeding and the recommendations for feeding infants with perinatal HIV exposure in the United States. The risk of HIV transmission via breastfeeding from a parent with HIV who is receiving antiretroviral treatment (ART) and is virally suppressed is estimated to be less than 1%. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that for people with HIV in the United States, avoidance of breastfeeding is the only infant feeding option with 0% risk of HIV transmission. However, people with HIV may express a desire to breastfeed, and pediatricians should be prepared to offer a family-centered, nonjudgmental, harm reduction approach to support people with HIV on ART with sustained viral suppression below 50 copies per mL who desire to breastfeed. Pediatric health care professionals who counsel people with HIV who are not on ART or who are on ART but without viral suppression should recommend against breastfeeding. Pediatric health care professionals should recommend HIV testing for all pregnant persons and HIV preexposure prophylaxis to pregnant or breastfeeding persons who test negative for HIV but are at high risk of HIV acquisition.

Establishing adherence-concentration-efficacy thresholds of TDF-FTC pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention in African women: a protocol for the Women TDF-FTC Benchmark Study

Background

Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) using co-formulated emtricitabine (FTC) and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is a potent HIV prevention method for men and women, with its efficacy highly dependent on adherence. A pivotal HIV efficacy study combined with a directly observed pharmacological study defined the thresholds for HIV protection in men who have sex with men (MSM), which are the keys to PrEP promotion and development of new PrEP agents. For African women at risk for HIV and belonging to a priority group considered due to disproportionately high incident HIV infections, the variable adherence in PrEP clinical trials and the limited pharmacologic data have resulted in a lack of clarity about the PrEP adherence required for HIV protection. We propose a study to quantify the adherence-concentration-efficacy thresholds of TDF/FTC PrEP among African cisgender women to inform decisions about optimal PrEP dosing and adherence for HIV protection.

Methods

We randomized 45 low-risk HIV-uninfected African women, aged 18-30 years old, to directly observe the TDF/FTC PrEP of two, four, or seven doses per week for 8 weeks. A complementary age-matched pregnant women cohort at high risk of HIV, who will receive seven doses per week, was recruited (N = 15) with the primary aim of establishing benchmark concentrations in dried blood spots and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Plasma, whole blood (WB), urine, hair, vaginal fluid, and vaginal tissue (non-pregnant women only) were archived for future testing. Drug concentrations were measured using methods validated for each biological matrix. Pharmacokinetic models were fitted to drug concentrations to quantify concentration-adherence thresholds. To define the drug concentrations associated with HIV protection, we applied the newly defined thresholds from the primary pharmacologic trial to the subset of women randomized to TDF/FTC or TDF in the Partners PrEP Study with the drug concentration assessed in plasma and WB samples. Multiple imputation was used to construct a data set with drug concentrations at each visit when an HIV test was performed for the entire cohort, replicating the work for MSM.

Discussion

The proposed study generated the first African women-specific TDF-PrEP adherence-concentration-efficacy thresholds essential for guiding the accurate interpretation of TDF/FTC PrEP programs and clinical trials of novel HIV prevention products using TDF/FTC as an active control.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier (NCT05057858).

Effect of HIV and substance use disorder comorbidity on the placenta, fetal and maternal health outcomes: systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

BACKGROUND

Substance use disorders and HIV infection have a bidirectional relationship. People who use illicit drugs are at increased risk of contracting HIV/AIDS, and people living with HIV/AIDS are at increased risk of using substances due to disease-related complications like depression and HIV-associated dementia. There is no adequate evidence on the effect of HIV/AIDS and substance use disorder comorbidity-related effects on placental, fetal, maternal and neonatal outcomes globally.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will search articles written in the English language until 30 January 2024, from PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, Web of Sciences, SUMsearch2, Turning Research Into Practice database and Google Scholar. A systematic search strategy involving AND/OR Boolean Operators will retrieve information from these databases and search engines. Qualitative and quantitative analysis methods will be used to report the effect of HIV/AIDS and substance use disorders on placental, fetal and maternal composite outcomes. Descriptive statistics like pooled prevalence mean and SD will be used for qualitative analysis. However, quantitative analysis outcomes will be done by using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software for studies that are combinable. The individual study effects and the weighted mean difference will be reported in a forest plot. In addition to this, the presence of multiple morbidities like diabetes, chronic kidney disease and maternal haemoglobin level could affect placental growth, fetal growth and development, abortion, stillbirth, HIV transmission and composite maternal outcomes. Therefore, subgroup analysis will be done for pregnant women with multiple morbidities.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Since systematic review and meta-analysis will be conducted by using published literature, ethical approval is not required. The results will be presented in conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42023478360.

Risk of transmission of HIV to infants during breast/chest feeding when mothers/birthing parents living with HIV are on antiretroviral therapy: a protocol for a rapid review

INTRODUCTION

HIV is a major public health issue affecting millions globally. Women and girls account for 46% of new HIV infections in 2022 and approximately 1.3 million females become pregnant every year. Vertical transmission of HIV from persons living with HIV (PLHIV) to infants may occur through different modalities, such as through breast/chest feeding. Notably, 82% of PLHIV who chose to breast/chest feed are on antiretroviral therapy (ART) when feeding their infants. Precise estimates of the risk of postpartum transmission to infants during breast/chest feeding at varying viral load levels remain a significant gap in the literature.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A rapid systematic search of electronic databases will be conducted from January 2005 to the present, including Medline, Embase and Global Health. The objective of this rapid review is to explore and assess the available evidence on the effect of varying viral load levels on the risk of HIV transmission to infants during breast/chest feeding when the birthing or gestational parent living with HIV is on ART. Study characteristics will be summarised and reported to support the narrative summary of the findings. The focus will be on the absolute risk of HIV transmission from birthing parent to infant during chest/breast feeding. The findings will also be stratified by month, including the risk of HIV transmission for 6 months and greater than 6 months postpartum. We will ascertain the risk of bias using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2, Quality of Prognosis Studies and Downs and Black checklist for the appropriate study type. A summary score will not be calculated, rather the strengths and limitations of the studies will be narratively described.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

No human subjects will be involved in the research. The findings of this rapid review will inform a future systematic review and will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, presentations and conferences.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42024499393.

Fetal Clinical and Paraclinical Outcomes in HIV-Positive Pregnant Women

Background Adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection remain significantly increased. Untreated maternal infection primarily leads to fetal complications, such as intrauterine growth restriction, stillbirth, or preterm birth. Concerning both maternal and fetal complications that can appear in pregnancy associated with HIV infection, the purpose of the study was to determine fetal and maternal demographic characteristics and the correlation between blood count parameters and poor fetal prognosis. Methods We conducted a quantitative study utilizing document review as the data collection method. This study encompassed a cohort of nine HIV-positive pregnant women who delivered at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the University Emergency Hospital in Bucharest from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2023. A comparative cohort of nine healthy pregnant women who delivered during the same period in the same facility was selected using stratified random sampling. We examined maternal and fetal demographic parameters and neonatal outcomes, reporting them to paraclinical laboratory data. Results The incidence of pregnancy-related HIV infections was 0.16%. The mean age of patients in the selected group was 29.88 ± 5.53. There was no statistically significant correlation between maternal clinical and paraclinical parameters in the HIV-positive and HIV-negative groups. Although there was a slightly negative difference in the fetal weight at birth, the 1-min APGAR (appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration) score, and the intrauterine growth restriction between the two groups, there was a statistically significant association between admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and the neonates from HIV-positive pregnancies. In our study, we observed preterm deliveries in 22.22% of cases, and we did not record any stillbirths. The 1-min APGAR score was correlated with the value of leukocytes in peripheral blood. Vertical transmission was established to be 11.11% independent of maternal blood count parameters. Conclusion HIV infection during pregnancy leads to a higher risk of admission to the NICU. Fetal leukocytosis is indicative of a lower 1-min APGAR score. The primary emphasis of therapeutic intervention during pregnancy should center on vigilant monitoring of maternal viral load and the timely administration of antiretroviral therapy to enhance fetal outcomes.

Randomized Trial of Dynamic Choice HIV Prevention at Antenatal and Postnatal Care Clinics in Rural Uganda and Kenya

BACKGROUND

Pregnant and postpartum women in Sub-Saharan Africa are at high risk of HIV acquisition. We evaluated a person-centered dynamic choice intervention for HIV prevention (DCP) among women attending antenatal and postnatal care.

SETTING

Rural Kenya and Uganda.

METHODS

Women (aged 15 years or older) at risk of HIV acquisition seen at antenatal and postnatal care clinics were individually randomized to DCP vs. standard of care (SEARCH; NCT04810650). The DCP intervention included structured client choice of product (daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis or postexposure prophylaxis), service location (clinic or out of facility), and HIV testing modality (self-test or provider-administered), with option to switch over time and person-centered care (phone access to clinician, structured barrier assessment and counseling, and provider training). The primary outcome was biomedical prevention coverage-proportion of 48-week follow-up with self-reported pre-exposure prophylaxis or postexposure prophylaxis use, compared between arms using targeted maximum likelihood estimation.

RESULTS

Between April and July 2021, we enrolled 400 women (203 intervention and 197 control); 38% were pregnant, 52% were aged 15-24 years, and 94% reported no pre-exposure prophylaxis or postexposure prophylaxis use for ≥6 months before baseline. Among 384/400 participants (96%) with outcome ascertained, DCP increased biomedical prevention coverage 40% (95% CI: 34% to 47%; P < 0.001); the coverage was 70% in intervention vs. 29% in control. DCP also increased coverage during months at risk of HIV (81% in intervention, 43% in control; 38% absolute increase; 95% CI: 31% to 45%; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

A person-centered dynamic choice intervention that provided flexibility in product, testing, and service location more than doubled biomedical HIV prevention coverage in a high-risk population already routinely offered access to biomedical prevention options.

HIV seroconversion and associated factors among seronegative pregnant women attending ANC in Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study

Background

In countries with limited resources, including Ethiopia, HIV is diagnosed using a rapid serological test, which does not detect the infection during the window period. Pregnant women who test negative for HIV on the first test may seroconvert throughout pregnancy. Women who are seroconverted during pregnancy may not have received interventions, as they are considered HIV-negative unless they are retested for HIV at the end of their pregnancy. Due to limited data on HIV seroconversion, this study aimed to measure the extent of HIV seroconversion and to identify associated factors among seronegative pregnant women attending ANC in Ethiopia.

Methods

Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-negative pregnant women attending the ANC in Ethiopia between June and July 2020. Socio-demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were collected through face-to-face questionnaires and participants' records review. HIV retesting was performed to determine the current HIV status of pregnant women. The data collected were entered into Epi data version 4.4.1 and were exported and analyzed by SPSS version 25. A p-value < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis was entered into multivariable logistic regression analysis and a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Result

Of the 494 pregnant women who tested negative for HIV on their first ANC test, six (1.2%) tested positive on repeat testing. Upon multivariable logistic regression, pregnant women who have had a reported history of sexually transmitted infections [AOR = 7.98; 95% CI (1.21, 52.82)], participants' partners reported travel history for work frequently [AOR = 6.00; 95% CI (1.09, 32.99)], and sexually abused pregnant women [AOR = 7.82; 95% CI (1.194, 51.24)] were significantly associated with HIV seroconversion.

Conclusion

The seroconversion rate in this study indicates that pregnant women who are HIV-negative in early pregnancy are at an ongoing risk of seroconversion throughout their pregnancy. Thus, this study highlights the benefit of a repeat HIV testing strategy in late pregnancy, particularly when the risk of seroconversion or new infection cannot be convincingly excluded. Therefore, repeated testing of HIV-negative pregnant women in late pregnancy provides an opportunity to detect seroconverted pregnant women to enable the timely use of ART to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV infection.

Perinatal outcomes associated with pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-based oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), the dapivirine vaginal ring, and long-acting intramuscular injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) for HIV prevention in populations at substantial risk of HIV infection. Pregnancy is a period of elevated risk of maternal HIV infection and transmission to the infant. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes among HIV-negative pregnant women with exposure to any PrEP modality.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review by searching Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Global Health, the Cochrane Library, WHO ICTR, ISRCTN, PACTR, and ClinicalTrials.gov for studies published between 1 January 2000 and 29 August 2023. We included studies reporting on the association of antenatal exposure to any PrEP modality with 13 perinatal outcomes: preterm birth (PTB), very PTB, spontaneous PTB, spontaneous very PTB, low birthweight (LBW), very LBW, term LBW, preterm LBW, small for gestational age (SGA), very SGA, miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death (NND). Quality assessments of included studies were performed. Fixed-effect meta-analyses were conducted to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). The protocol is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42022339825.

Findings

Of 18,598 citations identified, 13 studies (eight randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and five cohort studies), assessing 8712 pregnant women in Africa, were included. Oral PrEP, compared to no PrEP, was not associated with PTB in meta-analyses of six RCTs (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.43-1.26; I2 = 0.0%) or five unadjusted cohort studies (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.69-1.03; I2 = 0.0%), but was associated with a reduced risk of PTB in three adjusted cohort studies (aOR 0.67; 95% CI 0.52-0.88, I2 = 0.0%). There was no association of oral PrEP with LBW, vLBW, SGA, or NND, compared to no PrEP. There was no association with PTB when oral TDF/emtricitabine (FTC) PrEP, oral TDF PrEP, and tenofovir vaginal gel were compared to each other. There was no association of the dapivirine vaginal ring with PTB or NND, compared to placebo or oral TDF/FTC PrEP. We found no data on CAB-LA.

Interpretation

We found no evidence of adverse perinatal outcomes associated with PrEP exposure during pregnancy. Our findings support the WHO recommendation to provide oral PrEP to women of reproductive age and pregnant women. More data is needed to assess the safety of all PrEP modalities in pregnancy.

Funding

None.

Preferences and uptake of home-based HIV self-testing for maternal retesting in Kenya

Objective

To compare preferences, uptake, and cofactors for unassisted home-based oral self-testing (HB-HIVST) versus clinic-based rapid diagnostic blood tests (CB-RDT) for maternal HIV retesting.

Design

Prospective cohort.

Methods

Between November 2017 and June 2019, HIV-negative pregnant Kenyan women receiving antenatal care were enrolled and given a choice to retest with HB-HIVST or CB-RDT. Women were asked to retest between 36 weeks gestation and 1 week post-delivery if the last HIV test was <24 weeks gestation or at 6 weeks postpartum if ≥24 weeks gestation, and self-report on retesting at a 14 week postpartum.

Results

Overall, 994 women enrolled and 33% (n=330) selected HB-HIVST. HB-HIVST was selected because it was private (68%), convenient (63%), and offered flexibility in timing of retesting (63%), whereas CB-RDT was selected due to trust of providers to administer the test (77%) and convenience of clinic testing (64%). Among 905 women who reported retesting at follow-up, 135 (15%) used HB-HIVST. Most (94%) who selected CB-RDT retested with this strategy, compared to 39% who selected HB-HIVST retesting with HB-HIVST. HB-HIVST retesting was more common among women with higher household income and those who may have been unable to test during pregnancy (both retested postpartum and delivered <37 weeks gestation) and less common among women who were depressed. Most women said they would retest in the future using the test selected at enrollment (99% HB-HIVST; 93% CB-RDT-RDT).

Conclusions

While most women preferred CB-RDT for maternal retesting, HB-HIVST was acceptable and feasible and may increase retesting coverage and partner testing.

The potential benefits of long-acting injectable cabotegravir in pregnant and breastfeeding women and their infants

BACKGROUND

Pregnant and breastfeeding women (PBW) in sub-Saharan Africa have high HIV incidence rates and associated risk of vertical transmission to their infants. Oral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and injectable PrEP (long-acting cabotegravir, or CAB-LA) can potentially reduce this HIV transmission, but population-level impacts are uncertain.

METHODS

We extended a previously developed model of HIV and PrEP in South Africa to allow for variable PrEP duration and preference in PBW. We considered three potential scenarios for PrEP provision to PBW: oral PrEP only, CAB-LA only, and allowing oral/CAB-LA choice, with uptake and retention assumptions informed by South African data, each compared with a 'base' scenario without PrEP for PBW.

RESULTS

Without PrEP for PBW, the model estimates 1.31 million new infections will occur between 2025 and 2035 in South African adults and children, including 100 000 in PBW, 16 800 in infants at/before birth, and 35 200 in children through breastmilk. In the oral PrEP-only scenario, these numbers would reduce by 1.2% (95% CI: 0.7-1.7%), 8.6% (4.8-12.9%), 4.0% (2.1-5.8%), and 5.3% (3.0-8.2%) respectively. In the CAB-LA-only scenario, the corresponding reductions would be 6.1% (2.9-9.6%), 41.2% (19.8-65.0%), 12.6% (6.0-19.4%), and 29.5% (13.9-46.8%), respectively, and in the oral/CAB-LA choice scenario, similar reductions would be achieved [5.6% (3.4-8.0%), 39% (23.4-55.9%), 12.4% (7.4-16.8%) and 27.6% (16.5-39.9%) respectively].

CONCLUSION

CAB-LA has the potential to be substantially more effective than oral PrEP in preventing HIV acquisition in PBW and vertical transmission, and can also modestly reduce HIV incidence at a population level.

Cofactors of Partner HIV Self-testing and Oral PrEP Acceptance Among Pregnant Women at High Risk of HIV in Kenya

BACKGROUND

Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and male partner HIV self-testing (HIVST) is being scaled up within antenatal clinics. Few data are available on how co-distribution influences acceptance of both interventions.

METHODS

We used data from the PrEP Implementation of Mothers in Antenatal Care (NCT03070600) trial in Kenya. Women included in this analysis were determined to be at high risk of HIV and offered oral PrEP and partner HIVST. Characteristics were compared between women who chose: (1) PrEP and HIVST, (2) HIVST-alone, (3) PrEP-alone, or (4) declined both (reference), excluding women who had partners known to be living with HIV.

RESULTS

Among 911 women, median age was 24 years, 87.3% were married, 43.9% perceived themselves to be at high risk of HIV and 13.0% had history of intimate partner violence (IPV). Overall, 68.9% accepted HIVST and 18.4% accepted PrEP, with 54.7% accepting HIVST-alone, 4.2% PrEP-alone, and 14.3% both HIVST and PrEP. Of women accepting HIVST, partner HIV testing increased from 20% to 82% and awareness of partner HIV status increased from 4.7% to 82.0% between pregnancy and 9 months postpartum (P < 0.001). Compared with women who accepted neither, choosing: (1) HIVST-alone was associated with being married, higher level of education, and residing with partner; (2) PrEP-alone was associated with lower social support, IPV, not residing with partner, longer time living with partner, and suspicion of other partners; and (3) PrEP and HIVST was associated with being married, IPV, and suspicion that partner had other partners.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding factors associated with accepting HIVST and PrEP can inform HIV prevention programs for pregnant women.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

NCT03070600.

Neglected medium-term and long-term consequences of labour and childbirth: a systematic analysis of the burden, recommended practices, and a way forward

Over the past three decades, substantial progress has been made in reducing maternal mortality worldwide. However, the historical focus on mortality reduction has been accompanied by comparative neglect of labour and birth complications that can emerge or persist months or years postnatally. This paper addresses these overlooked conditions, arguing that their absence from the global health agenda and national action plans has led to the misconception that they are uncommon or unimportant. The historical limitation of postnatal care services to the 6 weeks after birth is also a contributing factor. We reviewed epidemiological data on medium-term and long-term complications arising from labour and childbirth beyond 6 weeks, along with high-quality clinical guidelines for their prevention, identification, and treatment. We explore the complex interplay of human evolution, maternal physiology, and inherent predispositions that contribute to these complications. We offer actionable recommendations to change the current trajectories of these neglected conditions and help achieve the targets of Sustainable Development Goal 3. This paper is the third in a Series of four papers about maternal health in the perinatal period and beyond.

The effect of daily oral PrEP use during pregnancy on bone mineral density among adolescent girls and young women in Uganda

Introduction

Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is recommended during pregnancy for at-risk cisgender women. Pregnancy is known to impede bone growth and tenofovir-based PrEP may also yield detrimental changes to bone health. Thus, we evaluated the effect of PrEP use during pregnancy on bone mineral density (BMD).

Methods

We used data from a cohort of women who were sexually active, HIV-negative, ages 16-25 years, initiating DMPA or choosing condoms for contraception and enrolled in the Kampala Women's Bone Study. Women were followed quarterly with rapid testing for HIV and pregnancy, PrEP dispensation, and adherence counseling. Those who became pregnant were counseled on PrEP use during pregnancy per national guidelines. BMD of the neck of the hip, total hip, and lumbar spine was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry at baseline and annually. We compared the mean percent change in BMD from baseline to month 24.

Results

Among 499 women enrolled in the study, 105 pregnancies occurred in 90 women. At enrollment, the median age was 20 years (IQR: 19-21) and 89% initiated PrEP. During pregnancy, 67% of women continued using PrEP and PrEP was dispensed in 64% of visits. BMD declined significantly in women using PrEP during pregnancy compared to women who were not pregnant nor used PrEP: relative BMD change was -2.26% (95% CI: -4.63 to 0.11, p = 0.06) in the femoral neck, -2.57% (95% CI: -4.48 to -0.66, p = 0.01) in total hip, -3.06% (95% CI: -5.49 to -0.63, p = 0.001) lumbar spine. There was no significant difference in BMD loss when comparing PrEP-exposed pregnant women to pregnant women who never used PrEP. Women who became pregnant were less likely to continue PrEP at subsequent study visits than women who did not become pregnant (adjOR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.16-0.37, p < 0.001). Based on pill counts, there was a 62% reduction in the odds of high PrEP adherence during pregnancy (adjOR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.27-0.58, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Women who used PrEP during pregnancy experienced a similar reduction in BMD as pregnant women with no PrEP exposure, indicating that BMD loss in PrEP-using pregnant women is largely driven by pregnancy and not PrEP.

A Patient-Centered, Combination Intervention to Support Adherence to HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: A Randomized Pilot Study in Malawi

BACKGROUND

Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can reduce HIV incidence in pregnant and breastfeeding women, but adherence is essential.

METHODS

We conducted a pilot randomized trial to evaluate an intervention package to enhance antenatal and postnatal PrEP use in Lilongwe, Malawi. The intervention was based on patient-centered counseling adapted from previous PrEP studies, with the option of a participant-selected adherence supporter. Participants were locally eligible for PrEP and randomized 1:1 to intervention or standard counseling (ie, control) and followed for 6 months. Participants received the intervention package or standard counseling at enrollment, 1, 3, and 6 months. Adherence was measured through plasma and intracellular tenofovir concentrations and scored using a published algorithm. Our primary outcome was retention in care with concentrations consistent with 4-7 doses/week.

RESULTS

From June to November 2020, we enrolled 200 pregnant women with the median gestational age of 26 (interquartile range: 19-33) weeks. Study retention was high at 3 months (89.5%) and 6 months (85.5%). By contrast, across the 2 time points, 32.8% of participants retained in the study had adherence scores consistent with 2-5 doses/week while 10.3% had scores consistent with daily dosing. For the composite primary end point, no substantial differences were observed between the intervention and control groups at 3 months (28.3% vs. 29.0%, probability difference: -0.7%, 95% confidence interval: -13.3%, 11.8%) or at 6 months (22.0% vs. 26.3%, probability difference: -4.3%, 95% confidence interval: -16.1%, 7.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

In this randomized trial of PrEP adherence support, retention was high, but less than one-third of participants had pharmacologically confirmed adherence of ≥4 doses/week. Future research should focus on antenatal and postnatal HIV prevention needs and their alignment across the PrEP continuum, including uptake, persistence, and adherence.

Impact of Protease Inhibitor-Based Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy on Fetal Subcutaneous Fat Tissue in HIV-Pregnant Women in a Middle-Income Country

BACKGROUND

HIV infection continues to be a global public health challenge, affecting approximately 1.7 million reproductive-aged women. Protease inhibitor-based highly active antiretroviral therapy (PI-HAART) has significantly reduced the risk of vertical transmission of HIV from mother to child. Nevertheless, concerns linger regarding the long-term effects, particularly on body composition, notably subcutaneous fat tissue (SFT). Although HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (LS) has been well documented in adults and older children, its impact on fetuses exposed to PI-HAART remains underexplored. This study aims to evaluate SFT in the fetuses of HIV-pregnant women exposed to PI-HAART, assessing the potential clinical implications.

METHODS

We conducted a comparative study between HIV-pregnant women receiving PI-HAART and an HIV-negative control group. Fetometry measurements were obtained via 3D ultrasound. SFT in the fetal arm and thigh segments was assessed. Data were analyzed using lineal multivariate regression and receiver-operating characteristics (ROC)-curve analysis.

RESULTS

Fetuses exposed to PI-HAART exhibited a significant reduction in subcutaneous fat, particularly in the proximal third-middle union of the femur (coefficient: -2.588, p = 0.042). This reduction was correlated with lower newborn serum glucose levels (65.7 vs. 56.1, p = 0.007; coefficient: -1.277, p = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study sheds light on the connection between PI-HAART, fetal subcutaneous fat, and neonatal health. These findings might reveal the long-lasting effects of PI-HAART on newborns and children's well-being. Our results emphasize the need for a more balanced approach to managing pregnant women with HIV in developing countries and open new venues for research on the impact of intrauterine PI-HAART exposure on energy metabolism and fetal programming.

More Frequent HIV Viral Load Testing With Point-Of-Care Tests Detects Elevated Viral Load Earlier in Postpartum HIV-Positive Women in a Randomized Controlled Trial in Two Clinics in Johannesburg, South Africa

BACKGROUND

Elevated maternal HIV viral load (VL) increases vertical transmission risk for breastfeeding children. This randomized controlled trial in Johannesburg primarily evaluated whether 3-monthly point-of-care testing, with laboratory-based standard-of-care testing (arm 2), compared with 6-monthly laboratory-based VL testing (arm 1) in postpartum women living with HIV receiving first-line tenofovir-emtricitabine-efavirenz antiretroviral treatment improved VL suppression, factors associated with nonsuppression, and drug resistance in those with virologic failure.

METHODS

Mother-child pairs were enrolled July 2018-April 2019 at the child's 6/10/14-week clinic visit. Women were randomized 1:1 to arm 1 or 2. Trained staff performed point-of-care VL testing using the Cepheid's Xpert HIV-1 VL assay. We fitted a generalized linear mixed model with VL suppression (<50 copies/mL (cps/mL) and <1000 cps/mL) at enrollment and 6, 12, and 18 months postpartum as the outcome and indicator variables for time, study site, study arm, and interaction variables. The final model tested for a difference by study arm, pooling across time points.

RESULTS

Of 405 women enrolled (204 arm 1 and 201 arm 2), 249 (61%) remained in follow-up through 18 months. There was no difference in VL suppression between arms at 6, 12, or 18 months. VL suppression rate (<50 cps/mL) at 18 months was 64.8% in arm 1 and 63.0% in arm 2 (P = 0.27). On bivariate analysis, there was an association with late antenatal booking and being in arm 2 for nonsuppressed VL, but no significant association with breastfeeding. HIV drug resistance was found in 12 of 23 participants (52.2%).

CONCLUSION

We found no significant difference in VL suppression with more frequent VL testing in postpartum women living with HIV receiving first-line efavirenz-based antiretroviral treatment.