A baby is at risk for infection from an HIV-positive mother during pregnancy, childbirth, and through breastfeeding. Transmission of HIV from a mother to her baby can occur during pregnancy when the virus crosses the placenta, during childbirth when the baby comes into contact with the mother's blood and bodily fluids, or through breastfeeding when the baby ingests the virus through the mother's milk. Steps can be taken to reduce the risk of transmission, such as taking antiretroviral medications during pregnancy and labor, having a scheduled cesarean delivery, and avoiding breastfeeding.
