Who should be screened for HIV according to the USPSTF recommendations for pregnant women?

According to the USPSTF (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force) recommendations, pregnant women should be screened for HIV due to the importance of early identification and treatment of the virus to prevent mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Screening all women in certain situations, particularly those who present in labor with unknown HIV status, is a critical recommendation.

This approach ensures that any woman who may potentially transmit HIV to her child is identified quickly, allowing for immediate intervention. If a pregnant woman is found to be HIV-positive, appropriate medical treatment can be initiated promptly to minimize the risk of transmission during childbirth.

While it is indeed important to consider screening all women during pregnancy as part of a comprehensive strategy, the specific recommendation to screen those presenting in labor with an unknown status is prioritized to address urgent situations effectively. This focuses on preventing potential risks in the immediate context of labor and delivery.