Factors Influencing Infant Feeding Option Among Hiv Positive Mothers Attending St Patrick’s Hospital (Mile Four) Abakaliki, Ebonyi State

Abstract

This study examined the factors influencing infant feeding options among HIV-positive mothers attending St. Patrick’s Hospital Mile 4, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State. The study was guided by three specific objectives focusing on socio-economic, maternal, and infant-related factors affecting infant feeding choices. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and a sample of 138 HIV-positive mothers was selected from a population of 211 using the Taro Yamane formula. Convenience sampling technique was used. Data were collected using a researcher-structured questionnaire with four sections and analyzed using simple percentage distribution. Findings showed that socio-economic conditions strongly influenced infant feeding choices. Although most respondents had access to clean drinking water, many lacked storage facilities, considered baby formula expensive, and reported insufficient money to meet basic feeding needs. Maternal factors also played a role, as many respondents stated that they make decisions about their baby’s feeding method, while some indicated that their health condition affected feeding. Infant-related factors were less common but still relevant, especially in cases involving refusal to breastfeed or health conditions that made sucking difficult. The study concluded that infant feeding options among HIV-positive mothers are shaped by a combination of economic constraints, maternal health and decision-making, and infant conditions. It recommended improved counseling, economic support, and stronger infant-feeding guidance for HIV-positive mothers to promote safer and more appropriate feeding practices.