Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission

Maternal Health is an important aspect of HIV prevention. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMCTC) of HIV infection is the cornerstone in the fight against pediatric HIV.

Baylor-Lesotho continues to support the Lesotho Ministry of Health in providing all HIV-infected pregnant and breastfeeding women ART treatment for life. Without treatment, one-third of HIV positive infants will die before their first birthday and one-half will die before their second birthday [Source: UNAIDS 2013]. Early infant diagnosis is essential for reducing infant mortality. Baylor-Lesotho proactively tests exposed infants using HIV DNA PCR technology in collaboration with Lesotho’s national reference laboratory.