Caesarean sections are safe obstetric proce- dures and a feasible option in many areas of the world. Elective caesareans should be per- formed in HIV positive women who present unknown HIV plasma viral loads or viral loads 1,000 copies/mL, preferably during the 38th or 39th gestational week, before onset of labour and membrane rupture, in suitable hospital con- ditions, so as to minimise the risks of maternal morbidity and mortality.