Abstract

Midwives in East Africa play a critical role in the prevention and management of HIV during pregnancy, a region 
where the epidemic remains a significant health burden. As frontline healthcare providers, midwives are essential in 
early HIV testing and counseling, initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART), and preventing mother-to-child 
transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. Despite their central role in maternal HIV care, midwives face numerous challenges, 
including inadequate training, resource limitations, high workloads, and cultural barriers. These constraints hinder 
their ability to deliver optimal care. This review examines the contributions of midwives in HIV prevention and 
management during pregnancy, focusing on their roles in early HIV detection, ART adherence, and PMTCT. It 
highlights the critical need for improved midwifery education, better healthcare infrastructure, and greater 
community engagement to enhance their capacity in combating HIV. The findings underscore the importance of 
supporting midwives in East Africa to reduce HIV transmission and improve maternal and child health outcomes in 
the region.