Women's perceptions of infant feeding Options for HIV-positive mothers in Likii Slum of central division, Laikipia District

Abstract

This study examined women's perceptions of infant feeding options for HIV-positive mothers in Likii slum of central division, Laikipia district. It was designed to examine how cultural norms and beliefs as well as health knowledge influence women's perceptions of infant feeding options for HIV-positive mothers. The study also investigated the relationship between a woman's socio-economic status and her perceptions towards infant feeding options for sero-positive mothers. The study was guided by the socialization theory since people's perceptions are to a larger extent moulded through the socialization process as individuals experience different agents of socialization in their lifetime. Data was collected using structured interviews, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and presented in tables of frequencies and percentages. On the other hand, qualitative data was organized, summarized and presented in verbatim quotes and selected comments. The study findings suggest that the women in the area have a high knowledge of HIV transmission through breastfeeding and that it could be prevented. However, the level of knowledge of the infant feeding options for HIV-positive mothers is low. This in turn affects their perceptions of the options negatively. Cultural norms and beliefs, which also negatively affect the women's perceptibns of the options, include breastfeeding for long durations and mixed feeding. In addition, wet-nursing or heat-treating breast milk is not culturally acceptable. The women's socio-economic status also had an influence on these infant-feeding options. The study thus recommends the creation of awareness on all the options to reduce the HIV/AIDS stigma, and for mothers to have a variety of choices when they find themselves HfV-positive. Efforts should be directed not only at women, but also at those who influence women's decisions about infant feeding. If replacement feeding is to be advised, the supply of breast milk substitutes should be given priority since feeding advice will depend on their availability. Efficie-nt distribution is essential if free or subsidized breast milk substitutes are to be offered, to ensure they reach eligible mothers. Resources should -vbe spent on promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the population as a whole, so that it will be easier for HIV -infected women who choose the option to practise it without stigmatising themselves as being HIV-positive.