According to the USPSTF, how should clinicians approach HIV screening for pregnant women?

The recommendation to screen all pregnant women for HIV, regardless of whether they exhibit symptoms, is based on the significant public health benefit that comes from identifying and treating HIV infection in this population. Early detection of HIV during pregnancy allows for timely antiretroviral therapy, which can drastically reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of the virus.

By screening all pregnant women, clinicians can not only provide appropriate care to those who are infected but also reassure those who test negative, thereby promoting overall maternal health and reducing the potential spread of HIV within the community. This approach aligns with the USPSTF's focus on preventive measures to improve health outcomes for both the mother and the child.

The other options, which suggest more restrictive screening practices or referral to specialists, do not align with current guidelines. They may miss the opportunity for early diagnosis and intervention, ultimately compromising the health of both the mother and the child. The USPSTF's guidance thus emphasizes the importance of universal screening in this vulnerable population.