NACOSA is committed to supporting all mothers in their breastfeeding journey, including those living with HIV. In alignment with World Health Organization (WHO) and national guidelines, we emphasise the critical role of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside complementary feeding for up to two years or longer.
“Feeding a baby breast milk only (exclusive breastfeeding) is highly recommended for the first six months of a child’s life.” Says Sr. Colleen Wagner, NACOSA’s Catalytic Grant Manager who is also a midwife and nursing sister.
HIV positive mothers can feel comfortable that antiretroviral treatment (ART) lowers the risk of passing HIV to the baby, even if the baby is also fed formula. While exclusive breastfeeding is recommended, it is still okay to breastfeed if you’re also using formula, as long as you’re on ART.
“Mothers can continue breastfeeding for at least two years or more, along with adding suitable solid foods. Women living with HIV should get full support to stay on their antiretroviral therapy during and after breastfeeding,” She continues.
Mothers who are feeding their child both formula and breast milk (mixed feeding) in the first six months should be encouraged to return to exclusive breastfeeding, as recommended by the WHO.
“HIV positive mothers can be informed that breastfeeding for less than 12 months is still better than not breastfeeding at all.” Adds Wagner
The main way HIV is passed to infants is from mother to child, which can happen during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Antiretroviral medications for the mother and child can significantly lower the risk of HIV transmission during breastfeeding.
To prevent HIV transmission through breastfeeding, mothers who are HIV positive should take antiretroviral medication for life, and healthcare professionals should advise them on whether to breastfeed while taking these medications.
NACOSA encourages HIV positive moms to breastfeed for at least 12 months, and they may continue nursing for up to 24 months or longer while on ART treatment.
“The length of breastfeeding should not be limited in environments where health professionals encourage and assist women living with HIV through lifetime ART, adherence counselling, and other services. Breastfeeding should be discontinued only when a nutritionally appropriate and safe diet free of breast milk can be supplied,” shares Wagner.
Priscilla Mokwala, a young mother who had a child at the age of 18, was rejected by her parents after they found out she was pregnant. This presented difficulties for her as she adjusted to parenting.
“Seek support. You don’t have to go through this journey alone. Take care of yourself physically and mentally.” Says Priscila
“Moms need support and care to breastfeed successfully, and women living with HIV can breastfeed with a very low risk of transmission if they are on ART and virally suppressed.” Concludes Wagner.
