Final answer:
Mother-to-child transmission of HIV is a form of vertical transmission and can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding. The risk of transmission is significantly reduced by taking preventive measures such as antiretroviral therapy for the mother and baby, cesarean delivery, and avoiding breastfeeding if possible. HIV transmission through blood transfusions is now very rare due to strict screening procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV
Mother-to-child transmission of HIV can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. This form of transmission, also known as vertical transmission, greatly increases the risk of the child acquiring HIV from an HIV positive mother. Without intervention, the transmission rate through breast milk is approximately 15%. However, there are proven methods to significantly reduce this risk.
Prevention of HIV Transmission
To minimize the risk of mother-to-child transmission, antiretroviral medications can be administered to the mother during pregnancy and to the infant after birth, decreasing transmission rates to about 1%. Moreover, a cesarean delivery as opposed to a vaginal one can further reduce transmission during childbirth. To eliminate the risk of transmitting HIV via breast milk, bottle feeding can be substituted if feasible.
In the past, transmission of HIV was also a concern through blood transfusions and organ transplants. However, with rigorous screening for HIV in donated blood and transplanted organs, this mode of transmission has been almost completely eradicated. Another important consideration is that HIV is not spread through saliva, meaning casual contact poses no risk for HIV transmission.