Final answer:
To reduce the risk of HIV transmission from a mother to her infant, antiretroviral medications are given to both, cesarean delivery is performed, and breastfeeding is avoided in favor of bottle feeding.
Step-by-step explanation:
To minimize the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, antiretroviral medications should be administered to both the mother during pregnancy and the infant after birth. A cesarean delivery is recommended to further reduce the likelihood of transmission during childbirth. It is also advised to avoid breastfeeding and opt for bottle feeding, if possible, to prevent the spread of HIV through breast milk.
Without intervention, the rate of vertical HIV transmission can be as high as 15% through breastfeeding. However, following these preventative steps can lower the transmission rates to about 1%. Health professionals must ensure that the protocols are tailored to each individual case and that all safety measures are taken to protect the health of both the mother and the infant. Timely and appropriate treatment can significantly improve outcomes for children born to mothers with HIV.