Parenthood

pregnant african woman
african baby

Thinking about having a baby

Your HIV status doesn't mean that you can't think about starting a family.

african couple tlaking in garden

Thinking about pregnancy

With good medical care, HIV positive women can give birth to children without passing on HIV.

conception

Conception

Women usually become pregnant after unprotected sex but this is not always the best way when one or both of you have HIV.

contraception

Contraception

Some methods of contraception are less effective if you are taking anti-HIV drugs.

african mother and baby

Preventing mother to baby transmission

Many women with HIV have given birth to HIV-negative children, by taking a number of precautions.

hands holding african pregnant belly

Support while you are pregnant

Your healthcare team will play a key role in helping you stay well while you are pregnant.

african woman doing yoga

Antenatal care

Good antenatal care is an essential part of reducing the risk of your baby being born with HIV.

african baby being changed

After the birth

Overwhelming life changes brought about by a new baby can be particularly complex for women with HIV.

african woman thinking

Terminating a pregnancy

If you find yourself pregnant but do not feel able to have a child, you may find this information useful.