Breastfeeding with HIV

DescriptionBecoming a mother while living with HIV can be daunting, but with the right treatment, transmission of the virus from mum to baby can be prevented.

An HIV-infected mother can pass the infection to her infant during pregnancy, delivery and through breastfeeding, but antiretroviral (ARV) drugs given to the mother and the HIV-exposed infant reduce the risk of transmission. Together, breastfeeding and ARVs have the potential to significantly improve a baby's chances of surviving while remaining HIV free.

Breast milk contains antibodies that help protect babies from common childhood illnesses such as diarrhoea and pneumonia, the two primary causes of child mortality worldwide.

Nonetheless, misunderstandings about breastfeeding and obstacles to accessing HIV treatment persist.

UNICEF promotes community outreach and support for mothers by working with organisations such as Mentor Mothers to provide health education and psychosocial services from HIV-positive mothers to other HIV-positive mothers. Through the programme, new mums are empowered with how they can protect their babies from HIV infection, and keep themselves and their families healthy.

Supporting pregnant women living with HIV and encouraging them to continue their treatment and exclusive breastfeeding is very important, even when challenges arise. Programmes like this propel us toward an AIDS Free Generation.