Perceptions of HIV Positive Mothers on Feeding Options for their Potentially HIV Infection-Exposed Infants at Beitbridge Hospital, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Infant feeding directly affects the nutritional status of children under 2-years of age and, ultimately, impact child survival. Human Immune Deficiency Virus (HIV) infection brings even more challenges to the feeding practices of HIV positive mothers due to adjustments with the aim of preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission. The perceptions of HIV positive mothers on the feeding options adopted for their exposed infants at Beitbridge District Hospital, Zimbabwe, was explored. A qualitative approach was utilized for the study using purposive sampling to select a sample of 11 mothers on whom in-depth structured interviews were conducted. Knowledge gaps pertaining to the recommended feeding options with most of them not adhering to the ideal feeding options existed amongst HIV naïve mother. Some practiced exclusive breastfeeding, others used mixed feeding. Constraints included culture which has a strong impact on feeding options and lack of partner and family support, coupled with low HIV status disclosure levels. Ways of improving adherence to ideal feeding options were suggested as educating and counselling HIV positive mothers on feeding options and follow-ups to enhance ideal feeding practices. Recommendations were to capacitate the midwives with the requisite information to facilitate education and empowerment of the mothers for informed infant feeding choices through review of curriculum. Review of strategies for enforcing a breastfeeding environment was also recommended. There is also need to address cultural, autonomy and stigma challenges through scaling up psycho-social and gender empowerment strategies for women. Promotion of the integration of HIV infant feeding strategies into other child health services is essential.