The aim of this study was to explore, describe and interpret the experiences of Immunodeficiency Human Virus (HIV) infected mothers regarding exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of the infant’s life. This was a qualitative study with phenomenology as a design as the study was about lived experiences. The sample consisted of HIV infected mothers aged 18 years and above who opted for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of their infant’s lives. Purposive sampling was used. Data was collected through one to one semi structured interviews of fifteen mothers of babies aged six to twelve months. The study revealed that mothers had both positive and negative experiences which were influenced by among others; the level of support the mothers received, disclosure of HIV status and health education received at the health facility. The findings of the study revealed a low level of understanding of the Infant and Young Child Feeding Policy by health professionals / Health Studies / M.A. (Health Studies)

The aim of this study was to explore, describe and interpret the experiences of Immunodeficiency Human Virus (HIV) infected mothers regarding exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of the infant’s life. This was a qualitative study with phenomenology as a design as the study was about lived experiences. The sample consisted of HIV infected mothers aged 18 years and above who opted for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of their infant’s lives. Purposive sampling was used. Data was collected through one to one semi structured interviews of fifteen mothers of babies aged six to twelve months. The study revealed that mothers had both positive and negative experiences which were influenced by among others; the level of support the mothers received, disclosure of HIV status and health education received at the health facility. The findings of the study revealed a low level of understanding of the Infant and Young Child Feeding Policy by health professionals / Health Studies / M. A. (Health Studies)

The study sought to explore and describe the breastfeeding practices of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive postnatal clients’ non-commitment to exclusive breastfeeding in George Mukhari Hospital, South Africa. A non-experimental quantitative design was used. Inferences drawn from the study were that HIV positive clients that opted for exclusive breastfeeding did not commit for fear of transmission of HIV to the baby and exclusive breastfeeding was stopped before the recommended 6 months. Most of the respondents’ partners did not come for counselling. There was lack of emotional support by staff after testing. Health education and emotional support of HIV positive clients has to be intensified. / Health Studies / M. A. (Health Studies)

The study sought to explore and describe the breastfeeding practices of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive postnatal clients’ non-commitment to exclusive breastfeeding in George Mukhari Hospital, South Africa. A non-experimental quantitative design was used. Inferences drawn from the study were that HIV positive clients that opted for exclusive breastfeeding did not commit for fear of transmission of HIV to the baby and exclusive breastfeeding was stopped before the recommended 6 months. Most of the respondents’ partners did not come for counselling. There was lack of emotional support by staff after testing. Health education and emotional support of HIV positive clients has to be intensified. / Health Studies / M. A. (Health Studies)