HIV PMTCT Protocol

Historically, breastfeeding was an absolute contraindication for HIV-positive mothers in resource-rich settings. Modern DHHS guidelines now explicitly state that if a mother is virologically suppressed (undetectable) and strongly desires to breastfeed, providers should NOT contact Child Protective Services, but instead offer patient-centered, shared decision-making support.

The Pediatric AIDS Clinical Trials Group (PACTG) Protocol 076 published in 1994 was the revolutionary placebo-controlled trial that proved Zidovudine could prevent maternal-fetal transmission, fundamentally changing the trajectory of the global AIDS pandemic.