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Original Research
Perceptions of HIV-positive mothers towards 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding in Duncan Village
Submitted: 23 April 2025 | Published: 07 November 2025
About the author(s)
Nontando P. Mkhencele, Department of Treatment & Paediatrics, UNAIDS South Africa Country Office, Gauteng, South AfricaMygirl P. Lowane, Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
Martha Chadyiwa, Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
Deliwe R. Phetlhu, Department of Nursing, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
Dini Mawela, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
Olanrewaju Oladimeji, Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa; Department of Social Sciences, Demography and Population Studies Unit, Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, South Africa; and Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cyberjaya, Bestari, Malaysia
Abstract
Background: In South Africa, vertical transmission remains a prevalent method of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission among children, primarily through breastfeeding. Even though the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding by HIV-positive mothers surpass the risk of infection, adherence to this feeding practice often faces challenges because of various reasons and perceptions, which are examined in this study.
Methods: This qualitative study utilised in-depth interviews to explore the attitudes of HIV-positive mothers towards exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. Employing a purposive sampling technique, interviews were carried out with 20 HIV-positive mothers presenting for postnatal care at a chosen healthcare facility.
Results: The study found that HIV-positive mothers expressed scepticism towards the recommendation of 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding and refrained from it because of several factors related to patients and healthcare providers.
Conclusion: The primary suggestion is to enhance education on exclusive breastfeeding for HIV-positive mothers during antenatal care and post-pregnancy, in some circumstances, with continuous support for all mothers, regardless of their feeding choice.
Contribution: This study highlights the potential of education to enhance exclusive breastfeeding for HIV-positive mothers during antenatal care and post-pregnancy to maintain a healthy family in resource-constrained settings.
Keywords
Sustainable Development Goal
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