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How to manage HIV infection during pregnancy?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 30-year-old female. I was diagnosed with HIV recently. I am three months pregnant. I do not know how I got this HIV. May I know how it is caused? The doctor told me to take some medications. May I know some information about pre-exposure prophylaxis? What is pre-exposure prophylaxis? What are the medications that can be taken in this? What are the side effects faced? How to manage those side effects effectively?

Kindly suggest.
Answered by Dr. Raveendran S R

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

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Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a preventive medication for those at risk of HIV. It involves taking a daily pill (often a combination of Tenofovir and Emtricitabine) to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV.

For pregnant women, your doctor will prescribe medications that are safe during pregnancy, such as antiretrovirals. Side effects include nausea, headaches, and fatigue, but these are often manageable by taking medications with food and staying hydrated.

I hope this helps.

Take care.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At January 29, 2025
Reviewed At December 11, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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Dr. Raveendran S R
Dr. Raveendran S R

Sexology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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