Incidence and determinants of pregnancy among women receiving HAART in Simiyu region: 14-year retrospective follow-up

Abstract

Introduction: The introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy has so far led to a comparable reduction in disease progression and restoration of normal functioning of reproductive system in female living with HIV infection. The main objective of this study was to find out the magnitude of pregnant and its determinants among ART-registered clients in Simiyu region, Tanzania. Methods: We used a retrospective cohort study of HIV/AIDS women initiated ART in Simiyu region from 2005 up to 2018. Kaplan–Meier survival graphics were used to explain the difference pregnancies experiences among different groups. Cox proportion hazard was used for model building to determine the predictors of pregnancy. Results: A total number of 525 women became pregnant, giving an overall incidence rate of 3.1/100 person year at risk (PYAR) (95% CI 2.84–3.37). The incidence of pregnant was higher between the age 15 and 29 years (5.86/100 PYAR, 95% CI: 5.23–6.55). Cohabited and those who are married were associated with high incident rate of pregnant (5.62/100 PYAR, 95% CI: 1.81–17.43 and 4.16/100 PYAR, 95% CI: 3.79–4.57). Weight >55 kg were associated with high incidence of pregnant (5.03 PYAR, 95% CI: 4.54–5.57), and WHO stage one have high incidence of pregnant (11.14/100 PYAR, 95% CI: 9.95–12.47). Conclusion: Young age and being healthier were the main predictors of pregnancy after ART initiation in this population. Policy for integration of family planning services into HIV care and treatment clinics should be strengthened but focused to young women. More follow-up is needed for pregnant and newborn outcome.