Lydia Kapiriri1, Wangari Esther Tharao2, Marvelous Muchenje3, Khatundi Irene Masinde4, Sandi Siegel5, Fanta Ongoiba6. 1. Department of Health, Aging and Society, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. 2. Research coordinator, Women's Health in Women's Hands, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 3. Community Health coordinator, Women's Health in Women's Hands, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 4. Independent Community member. 5. McMaster University, Faculty of Health Science, Department of Pediatrics and Infectious Diseases, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. 6. Executive Director, Africans in Partnership against AIDS, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Abstract
UNLABELLED: Mothers in HIV-endemic countries are advised to exclusively breastfeed their babies until six months because of lack of resources and better chances for child survival, while in developed countries, replacement feeding is advised. What are the experiences of HIV-positive women who migrate from HIV-endemic countries to developed countries, when making infant feeding choices? METHODS: In-depth interviews and focus group discussions with a total of 25 women living with HIV in Toronto and Hamilton, Ontario. RESULTS: Free infant formula alleviates the practical constraints in making infant feeding choices. However, cultural beliefs and social expectations constrain HIV-positive mothers' decision not to breastfeed. This is further complicated by the different policies. Service providers should understand the psychological and emotional experiences of the mothers in order to provide the appropriate support. Peers could be potential sources of support. The differences in policies are issues of global justice that need to be addressed.
UNLABELLED: Mothers in HIV-endemic countries are advised to exclusively breastfeed their babies until six months because of lack of resources and better chances for child survival, while in developed countries, replacement feeding is advised. What are the experiences of HIV-positive women who migrate from HIV-endemic countries to developed countries, when making infant feeding choices? METHODS: In-depth interviews and focus group discussions with a total of 25 women living with HIV in Toronto and Hamilton, Ontario. RESULTS: Free infant formula alleviates the practical constraints in making infant feeding choices. However, cultural beliefs and social expectations constrain HIV-positive mothers' decision not to breastfeed. This is further complicated by the different policies. Service providers should understand the psychological and emotional experiences of the mothers in order to provide the appropriate support. Peers could be potential sources of support. The differences in policies are issues of global justice that need to be addressed.
Authors: Pascal Djiadeu; Abban Yusuf; Clémence Ongolo-Zogo; Joseph Nguemo; Apondi J Odhiambo; Chantal Mukandoli; David Lightfoot; Lawrence Mbuagbaw; LaRon E Nelson Journal: BMJ Open Date: 2020-08-27 Impact factor: 2.692