Factors Associated with Infant Feeding Choices Among Women with HIV in Botswana

In resource-constrained settings, infant feeding decisions among women with HIV (WHIV) must balance the risk of infant HIV acquisition from breastfeeding with increased mortality associated with formula feeding. WHO guidelines recommend countries principally promote a single feeding method for WHIV, either breastfeeding or formula feeding. In 2016, Botswana revised its policy of formula feeding for infants born to WHIV, instead promoting exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months of life.

We sought to understand factors influencing infant feeding choices among WHIV by administering a questionnaire to pregnant and postpartum WHIV (2013-2015) participating in a clinical trial in Botswana (the Mpepu Study). Logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with infant feeding choices.

Of 810 surveyed participants, 24.0% chose breastfeeding and 76.0% chose formula feeding. Women were more likely to choose formula feeding if advised by a health worker to formula feed (aOR 1.90; 95% CI 1.02-3.57) or if they harboured doubts about the potency of antiretroviral treatment (ART) to prevent infant HIV acquisition (aOR 9.06; 95% CI 4.78-17.17). Women who reported lack of confidence in preparing infant formula safely (aOR 0.09; 95% CI 0.04-0.19) or low concerns about infant HIV acquisition (aOR 0.35; 95% CI 0.22-0.55) were significantly less likely to formula feed.

Perceptions about ART effectiveness, social circumstances and health worker recommendations were key influencers of infant feeding choices among WHIV. Health system factors and maternal education interventions represent ideal targets for any programmatic actions aiming to shape informed decision-making towards HIV-free survival of infants.