Awareness and attitude of HIV-positive lactating mothers towards breast feeding at Kabwohe health center IV, Sheema district.

The controversy between the risk of HIV transmission through breast milk and the lifesaving benefits of breastfeeding remains to be a dilemma faced by HIV-positive mothers. In developing countries, 30-45% of infants born to HIV-positive mothers become infected during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. This study explored the knowledge and attitude of HIV-positive lactating mothers attending the Young Child Clinic (YCC) at Kabwohe Health Center IV, Sheema district towards breastfeeding their babies. A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative approach to data collection was used to collect data from HIV-positive lactating mothers attending Young Child Clinic at Kabwohe Health Center IV, Sheema district. Fortyfour interviewed HIV-positive lactating mothers were age group of 20 to 29 (48%), 27% age group 30 to 39, 14% were age group 40 to 49, the least 7% age group 19 or lesser, and 4% were aged 50 years or more. 77% of HIV-positive mothers knew that HIV can be transmitted to their child, 18% did not know and 5% were not sure. 72.7% were aware that MTCT can be prevented by ARVs during pregnancy and breastfeeding; modified infant feeding; avoid sharing sharp objects and only 27.3% were not aware. The reproductive age needs to be empowered with knowledge regarding HIV infection, risks of transmission to their baby, and services available to reduce the risk. Follow-up and sensitization of HIV-positive lactating mothers for replacement feeding when it is acceptable, feasible, affordable, sustainable, and safe (AFASS). Keywords: HIV-positive mothers, Breastfeeding, Childbirth, Pregnancy, Lactating mothers.