Orphans and Vulnerable Children - CRIN

Nutritional Support for Infants

Born to HIV Positive Mothers

Handout 2 - Module 3 Topic 2

Infants who are born to HIV positive mothers are at risk of becoming HIV positive themselves,

through breastfeeding from the infected mother. In such cases, it is recommended that a

mother choose one of two options to feed her child:

 Exclusive breastfeeding(with no other foods given, not even water)

 Exclusive replacement feeding(with all breastfeeding replaced with a food substitute,

such as cow’s milk).

It is important that a mother does not mix the two feeding options, as this will increase the

risk of HIV transmission. There are risks and benefits associated with each of the feeding

options, so a mother will need to be aware of these so that she can make an informed choice.

1 Exclusive breastfeeding:

Benefits -

 Breast milk contains everything a baby needs, including water energy, proteins and

micro-nutrients.

 Breast milk is easy to provide to the child, is always available and is not costly.

 It gives emotional benefits to the mother and baby.

 It has contraceptive benefit for the mother.

 It is culturally appropriate.

Risks -

 HIV can be passed on the infant through breast milk.

 Breastfeeding can drain the strength of the mother and expose her to infections.

2 Replacement feeding:

Benefits -

 Replacement feeding reduces the risk of transmission of HIV from the mother to the infant.

 The mother’s body reserves are not depleted and this means she is stronger.

Risks -

 There is a higher risk of other non-HIV infections for the infant.

 Other foods do not transfer mother’s protective

antibodies and vitamins.

 Foods such as milk formulas are expensive, and the fuel for

boiling the water and making the foods up also drains

resources.

 If foods are not prepared properly, they can cause diseases

that lead to malnutrition.

 If the mother does not breastfeed, it may not be culturally

acceptable and may increase stigma for the infected

mother.

(^326) Appendix 1, Handouts Guide to Mobilising and Strengthening Community-Led Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children