Level of Adherence to Feeding Guidelines for Infants Born to Mothers Living with HIV in Rakai District, Uganda

Abstract

Introduction: There are a number of challenges to both the mother and the healthcare workers due to the risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmission as a result of infant feeding which poses a risk of HIV transmission. Proper and sufficient nutrition is crucial for child growth and development, and throughout the lifespan of the child. The focus of the Uganda national health sector is to promote health, disease prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of disease. National minimum health care package consists of Maternal and Child Health; Prevention, management, and control of communicable diseases; Prevention, management, and control of noncommunicable diseases; Health promotion and community health initiatives. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the level of adherence to feeding guidelines for infants born to mothers living with HIV in Rakai District, Uganda. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used with a sample size of 138 respondents and employing a quantitative method of inquiry. A non-probability sampling strategy called consecutive sampling was used to sample the mothers with HIV. Data were analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive analysis data. Results: Out of 135 HIV mothers interviewed, 69 (51.1%) adhered to breastfeeding guidelines for infants born to HIV mothers. Conclusion: 5 in every 10 HIV mothers adhere to breastfeeding guidelines for infants born to HIV mothers. Recommendations: Timely re-orientation of the mothers and family about the infant feeding, proper monitoring by the health workers.