Factors Hindering Elimination of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV Service Uptake among HIV Positive Women at Comboni Hospital Kyamuhunga Bushenyi District

Abstract

In the absence of preventive measures HIV infected mothers transmit the infection to their babies during pregnancy delivery and breastfeeding. However, improving eMTCT service uptake and continuum of care still remains a significant impediment in the western region of Uganda. The study was to explore factors hindering eMTCT service uptake among HIV positive women at Comboni Hospital Kyamuhunga. A descriptive cross-section design was used and majorly simple random sampling was employed with a number of 36 respondents and interviewed response were analysed using SPSS version to determine the association between the independent and dependent variable. The findings of the study revealed that there are a range of factors that hinder HIV positive women on eMTCT service uptake, disclosure of HIV status with 77.7%, lack of partner and family support with 75%, dependence on partners with 80.6%, long waiting times at facility and no linkage to support groups with 33.3%and 47.2% respectively. In conclusion Strengthening community awareness on the importance of eMTCT service uptake, improving on time management by health workers, engaging male involvement in eMTCT care, improve youth friendly services, empowering women, putting emphasis on disclosure of status and supporting young mothers is so crucial. Keywords: elimination, mother to child transmission, HIV service uptake, HIV positive women