6 HIV and pregnancy

6.14 Breastfeeding

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HIV transmission from breast milk

The risk of transmitting HIV from mother to baby via breast milk can be as high as 28%.

Bottle feeding is strongly recommended for all HIV-positive mothers

HIV-positive mothers living in industrialised countries can easily avoid transmitting HIV via breast milk by using bottles and formula milk.

Mixed feeding

Mixed feeding may carry an even higher transmission risk than exclusive breastfeeding. It is strongly recommended that a woman does not breastfeed occasionally.

When bottle feeding is difficult

It is very strongly recommended that you do not breastfeed occasionally.

One study showed that 'mixed feeding' may carry an even higher transmission risk than if you breastfeed exclusively.

Mothers sometimes worry that bottle-feeding will identify them as HIV-positive.

It is up to you whether or not you tell anyone that you are HIV-positive. If you do not wish to tell anyone that you are not breastfeeding because you are HIV-positive, your doctor or midwife can help you with other reasons to explain why you are bottlefeeding. For example, you can say you have cracked nipples or that the milk didn't come, both of which are common.

Cost of formula milk

If you cannot afford the formula, bottles and sterilising equipment may be provided by your hospital so that you do not need to breastfeed. Schemes vary from clinic to clinic. Provision of formula milk should be in confidence.

You are not a bad mother if you do not breastfeed.