Publications

The controversy between the risk of HIV transmission through breast milk and the lifesavingbenefits of breastfeeding remains to be a dilemma faced by HIV-positive mothers. Indeveloping countries, 30-45% of infants born to HIV-positive mothers become infected duringpregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. This study explored the knowledge and attitude ofHIV-positive lactating mothers attending the Young Child Clinic (YCC) at Kabwohe HealthCenter IV, Sheema district towards breastfeeding their babies. A descriptive cross-sectionalquantitative approach to data collection was used to collect data from HIV-positive lactatingmothers attending Young Child Clinic at Kabwohe Health Center IV, Sheema district. Fortyfourinterviewed HIV-positive lactating mothers were age group of 20 to 29 (48%), 27% agegroup 30 to 39, 14% were age group 40 to 49, the least 7% age group 19 or lesser, and 4%were aged 50 years or more. 77% of HIV-positive mothers knew that HIV can be transmittedto their child, 18% did not know and 5% were not sure. 72.7% were aware that MTCT can beprevented by ARVs during pregnancy and breastfeeding; modified infant feeding; avoidsharing sharp objects and only 27.3% were not aware. The reproductive age needs to beempowered with knowledge regarding HIV infection, risks of transmission to their baby, andservices available to reduce the risk. Follow-up and sensitization of HIV-positive lactating mothers for replacement feeding when it is acceptable, feasible, affordable, sustainable, and safe (AFASS).