When should HAART be initiated in pregnancy to achieve an undetectable HIV viral load by delivery?

Abstract

With a viral load more than 10, 000 copies/ml and especially with a viral load more than 100 ,000 copies/ml, the probability of achieving either less than 50 copies/ml by the time of delivery is compromised by delaying initiation of short-term highly active antiretroviral therapy beyond 20.4 weeks gestation. Current UK and other guidelines for when to commence START may therefore limit the chance of vaginal delivery.