From pregnancy to beyond : renewed emphasis on comprehensive HIV prevention in South Africa

Abstract

South Africa continues to document high HIV prevalence, particularly among pregnant women, highlighting significant prevention gaps. This viewpoint triangulates findings from the Sixth South African HIV Prevalence Survey, the 2022 Antenatal HIV Sentinel Survey, and our ongoing “Philani Ndiphile” trial, which is evaluating STI screening algorithms to improve pregnancy outcomes. Despite a recent national decline in antenatal HIV prevalence, the Philani trial recorded an HIV prevalence of 28.6% among pregnant women, mirroring high rates across the Eastern Cape Province. The trial cohort also revealed a significant increasing trend in HIV prevalence with age, from 6% at 18 years to 63% at 43 years, highlighting the need for age-targeted interventions in young women of childbearing age.

National progress toward UNAIDS’ targets for HIV status knowledge and ART initiation is evident; however, viral suppression remains a challenge, reflected in the 20% of Philani participants newly initiated or reinitiated on ART at their first antenatal visit. Efforts to reduce new HIV infections require strengthening, as high incidence rates persist among young women and during pregnancy and postpartum.

Expanding access to oral and long-acting PrEP for pregnant and postpartum women is critical. Current coverage is low, and while new options show promise, implementation guidance remains limited. Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and intimate partner violence, exacerbate HIV risk. Comprehensive interventions, including educational and vocational support, engaging male partners, and addressing STIs are essential. Continued support from global health partnerships and innovation in prevention strategies are vital to ending the epidemic and ensuring equitable outcomes.