"Barriers to Uptake and Effective Integration of PMTCT into SRH Services in Selected Health Facilities in Nairobi County, Kenya"

Abstract

Introduction: Prevention of Mother to child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV for a long time has been implemented as standalone programs. Recently, there has been increasing awareness and discussion on possible benefits of integrating Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and PMTCT services to reduce mother to child transmission of HIV. Aims and objectives: To identify barriers to PMTCT uptake and assesses challenges experienced in integration of PMTCT with SRH services. Material and methods: The study employed mixed methods of study design and three stage cluster sampling strategy to recruit 340 HIV positive postnatal mothers. Twelve key informants were purposively selected from all selected study facilities. A structured questionnaire and a focus group discussion guide were used to obtain information from postnatal HIV infected mothers on barriers to PMTCT uptake. Key informants interview guides (KIIs) were used to obtain information from hospitals administrators and PMTCT staff on barriers to effective intergration of SRH and PMTCT services. Data collected using questionnaires was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17. Qualitative data from key informants was analysed using Microsoft office excel. Observation and results: Lack of partners support, stigma and discrimination were reported as the main hindrances to PMTCT uptake. Inadequate staffing and lack of specialized training was reported as a barrier to PMTCT and SRH services integration. Conclusion: Barriers to PMTC integration with SRH programme can be eliminated by addressing shortage of staff, equipping staff with specialized knowledge and skills on SRH and PMTCT.