A current HCV infection may increase the risk of preterm birth among HIV-positive women

In a recent publication, Baer et al pointed out that there are few studies on the association between sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prematurity.1 Similarly, there are limited data on prematurity in the setting of HIV and HCV) co-infection. Many factors can contribute to preterm delivery in this population, both related and not related to HIV. For example, gestational age may be affected by HIV-related immunosuppression or use of antiretroviral therapy (ART).2 3 There is also evidence that in vitro HCV may infect the human trophoblast and cause ultrastructure changes.4 Relation between HCV infection and preterm birth has already been studied in HCV monoinfected population; however, HCV and HIV infections are rarely studied.5 We analysed the pregnancy outcomes in a cohort of HIV-positive women receiving integrated outpatient care at the Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Warsaw,6 whereby pregnant…

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