Abstract: Background: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) among HIV-positive pregnant women is essential for reducing mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV and improving maternal outcomes. However, the long-term effects of different ART regimens on pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight, remain underexplored, particularly in Nigeria.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of ART exposure on pregnancy outcomes in HIV-positive women in Jos, Nigeria, focusing on differences between those previously exposed to ART and ART-naïve women.
Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted across four healthcare facilities in Jos from January to December 2011. The study included 131 HIV-positive pregnant women, categorized as either "Exposed" (previous ART use) or "Unexposed" (ART-naïve). Data were collected on maternal demographics, ART regimens, mode of delivery, gestational age, and infant birth weight. Descriptive and comparative statistics were employed using SPSS.
Results: Preterm delivery rates were higher among Exposed women (25.4%) compared to Unexposed (11.5%). Low birth weight (<2.5 kg) was found in 20.6% of infants born to Exposed women and 19.7% of those born to Unexposed women. The most common ART regimen was HAART, used by 53.2% of participants.
Conclusions: ART use, particularly prior exposure, was associated with higher preterm birth rates but did not significantly affect low birth weight. Continued monitoring of ART regimens and maternal outcomes is crucial for improving care in HIV-positive pregnancies.
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