What is the most important information to provide to a pregnant woman with HIV regarding her newborn's infection risk?

The statement that most infants born to HIV-positive mothers are not infected with the virus is significant because it highlights the positive outcome associated with appropriate medical management during pregnancy. With effective use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV can be reduced to less than 1%. This information reassures the pregnant woman and emphasizes the effectiveness of ART in minimizing the risk of transmission, making it critical for her to adhere to treatment during pregnancy and delivery.

While discussing other options, it’s important to note that the statement regarding antiretroviral medications being teratogenic is misleading; most ART medications are considered safe for use during pregnancy and are critical in preventing transmission. The assertion that an infant will not contract HIV because the mother is at an early stage of infection overlooks the fact that transmission can occur at any stage without proper treatment. Similarly, stating that the newborn is likely to contract HIV without the use of ART is a reminder of the potential risk, but it does not lend the encouraging perspective found in the correct answer, emphasizing that many infants do not become infected when the mother receives proper care.