HIV positive mothers, perceptions of exclusive breastfeeding in postnatal ward at a particular hospital, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Mafokwane, Mothobola Maria
Exclusive breastfeeding is one of the infant feeding methods recommended by the World
Health Organisation (WHO) in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), especially to HIV positive women of low socio economic
status. The purpose of the study was to determine and describe the HIV positive
mothers’ perceptions towards exclusive breastfeeding in postnatal ward at a particular
hospital in Limpopo Province, South Africa.
Qualitative exploratory research design was used to explore and describe the HIV positive
mothers’ perceptions towards exclusive breastfeeding. A grand tour question in an
unstructured interview was used to collect data, followed by probing questions according
to participants’ responses. Data were collected from 15 HIV positive mothers aged 18
years and above. They opted for exclusive breastfeeding, and voice recorder and field
notes were used to capture data. The seven steps of data analysis, adapted from Colaizzi
were used. The findings: Although the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding was known by
mothers, some participants had limited knowledge on the importance of exclusive
breastfeeding. Some health care providers lack up-to-date information on exclusive
breastfeeding. Religious and cultural practices interfere with exclusive breastfeeding.
Coping strategies with the feeding options emerged as well.
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