‘HIV Mothers Can Breastfeed Children’

The Rivers State Coordinator, prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT)  of HIV/AIDs, Mrs Vivian Marthyns  say HIV positive mothers can breastfeed their children without infecting them with the virus. “we have enough evidence to show that HIV mothers could breastfeed, and that their babies many not have HIV if they do it well”.

She noted that though the first impulse  is usually to advise HIV positive mothers not to breastfeed at all, but research has shown more precisely the time at which the virus passed from mother to baby.

Mrs Marthyns  explained  that the initial reactions by health workers  have been overtaken by development.

“In the light of the immense benefit of breast milk and breastfeeding for both mother and baby, even in the face of HIV, the federal ministry of health recommends that HIV positive mothers  should be counseled on the various infant feeding options including breast feeding and the advantages and disadvantages of each option to help in the mother make an informed choice”, he said.

In doing this, she said cognizance should be given to the availability feasibility, affordability, safety and sustainability of the chosen option.

She, however advised lactating mothers to adhere strictly on the information given them.

Sogbeba Dokubo