Midwives’ views regarding implementation on prevention of vertical transmission HIV programme at Tshwane antenatal clinics

Abstract

Background

The prevention of vertical transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is critical in reducing mother-to-child transmission rates and improving health outcomes for both mothers and infants. Midwives and accoucheurs, as frontline healthcare providers at antenatal clinics, play a vital role in implementing HIV prevention programmes through testing, initiating antiretroviral therapy, and counselling, yet their views on this process remain underexplored.

Objectives

To explore and describe the midwives’ views on implementation of the prevention of vertical transmission (PVT) of HIV program at selected antenatal clinics in Tshwane, South Africa.

Methods

This study followed a Qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive research design. 13 Midwives/Accoucheurs were purposive sampled. Data were collected by conducting individual semi-structured interviews with the midwives. Data analysis was done through thematic analysis. Guba’s model of trustworthiness was implemented.

Results

Five themes emerged from the data analysis. 1 − Procedure to implement prevention of vertical transmission of HIV, 2 − Role of midwives in implementation of prevention of vertical transmission program, 3 −Benefits of the vertical transmission programme, 4 −Barriers to programme implementation and 5 −Strategies for implementation of the prevention of vertical transmission.

Conclusion

Overall the study highlighted the role of midwives in delivering effective HIV prevention care. The findings reveal that midwives are committed to the program’s implementation but face challenges such as negative attitudes of midwives who provide HIV services, lack of partner involvement and the Tier system not nationally interlinked. Moreover, they expressed a need for linkage to support groups, and integration of HIV mentors at each clinic to enhance program implementation.