2024/07/13 by Moore, Bliss Mark, Tobin-West, Charles Ibiene
#HAART #HIV #Nigeria #PMTCT #Rivers State #pregnancy
paper · doi:10.60787/tnhj.v17i1.266
Introduction: There are conflicting reports of adverse pregnancy outcomes following the administration of antiretroviral treatment (ARVs) to HIV-positive pregnant women. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of adverse effects of antiretroviral drugs and to underscore their public health importance in limiting adverse pregnancy outcomes in newborns. Methods: The study was a retrospective analysis of medical records of HIV-infected pregnant women who received anti-retroviral treatment (PMTCT) at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital between January 2010 and December 2013. Data was analyzed using Epi Info Version 7 Statistical Package. The level of significance was set at p≤ 0.05. Results: A total of 290 medical records were examined: 198 (68.28%) women commenced antiretroviral treatment before pregnancy, while 11 (3.79%) started in 2nd trimester of pregnancy. On deliveries: 263 (90.69%) were live births, while 27 (9.31%) were stillbirths. Apgar scores: 268 (92.41%) of the newborns had scores ≥7, while only 22 (7.59%) had Apgar scores less than 7. On birth weights: 263 (90.69%) had birth weights of ≥ 2,500 grams, while only 27 (9.31%) had low birth weights. Concerning haemoglobin levels: 162 (55.86%) of neonates had levels above 10g/dl, while 128 (44.14%) had below 10g/dl. On timing of delivery: only 44 (15.17%) were preterm, while the rest 246 (84.83%) were born full term. Conclusion: The study underscores the public health significance of antiretroviral treatment in the prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes in newborns and recommends its early initiation for maximum impact in the reduction of adverse pregnancy outcomes.