maternal HIV and planned caesarian section

Last edited 04/2021 and last reviewed 06/2023

HIV

• provide women with HIV information about the benefits and risks for them and their baby of the HIV treatment options and mode of birth as early as possible in their pregnancy, so that they can make an informed decision. Obtain specialist advice about HIV in pregnancy from a sexual health specialist if necessary

Hepatitis B virus

• do not offer pregnant women with hepatitis B a planned caesarean birth for this reason alone, as mother-to-baby transmission of hepatitis B can be reduced if the baby receives immunoglobulin and vaccination

Hepatitis C virus

• do not offer women who are infected with hepatitis C a planned caesarean birth for this reason alone
• offer pregnant women who are co-infected with hepatitis C virus and HIV a planned caesarean birth to reduce mother-to-baby transmission of hepatitis C virus and HIV

Herpes simplex virus

• offer women with primary genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection occurring in the third trimester of pregnancy a planned caesarean birth to decrease the risk of neonatal HSV infection
• do not routinely offer pregnant women with recurrent HSV infection a planned caesarean birth outside of the context of research

Reference:

• 1) NICE (March 2021). Caesarian Section