When should you start anti-HIV drugs?

When should you start anti-HIV drugs?

“Nothing is worse than morning sickness right after you’ve swallowed your meds.”

If you are not already taking anti-HIV drugs, doctors generally recommend starting treatment after 12 to 14 weeks of pregnancy, unless there is a medical reason to start earlier, such as a very high viral load. The main reason for waiting is to avoid any possible negative effects of the drugs on the fetus during the early stages of its development. Another reason for waiting is to avoid taking pills during the first trimester, when you are most likely to have morning sickness.

Some side effects of anti-HIV drugs, especially high blood sugar, low red blood cell count (anemia) and stress on the kidneys and liver, can be made worse by being pregnant. It is important to monitor for these side effects carefully. Your viral load and CD4 counts should also be tracked. Usually, your doctor will order blood tests one month after you start treatment and then every one to three months.

You’re already on anti-HIV drugs

“Since I tested positive I have been thinking about becoming pregnant. I have now been on meds for over a year and if I choose to get pregnant I might have to change my meds.”

If you are pregnant and already on anti-HIV drugs, you and your doctor may decide to switch the drugs you are taking. As we mentioned above, some drugs should be avoided during pregnancy. Talk with your doctor about what is best for you as soon as possible after finding out you are pregnant. If you are planning to become pregnant it’s a good idea to discuss drug choices with your doctor in order to reduce the chance of harming the fetus.

Stopping or changing your anti-HIV drugs

It is not a good idea to stop or change your drugs without first seeing your doctor. If you stop your treatment suddenly, your viral load will likely increase and there will be a higher risk of transmitting HIV to your baby. You may also increase the risk of developing drug resistance, which could limit your treatment options in the future.