Research on Infant-Feeding Experiences of Black Women with HIV
Author Information
Author(s): Bakita Kasadha, Tariq Shema, Angelina Namiba, Nell Freeman-Romilly, Moepi Neo, Gillian Letting, Tanvi Rai
Primary Institution: Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford
Hypothesis
How do Black women with HIV navigate infant-feeding decisions in the context of societal and medical pressures?
Conclusion
The study highlights the complex emotional and social challenges faced by Black women with HIV regarding infant-feeding decisions.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 50% of women with HIV live in African nations or are of African descent.
- Black African women are underrepresented in HIV research.
- Breastfeeding avoidance may signal an HIV-positive diagnosis in African diasporic communities.
- UK guidelines for breastfeeding with HIV have changed since 2018, but many women remain unaware.
Takeaway
This study shows that Black women with HIV often feel pressured to choose formula feeding over breastfeeding, even when they want to breastfeed.
Methodology
Qualitative study using co-production principles with an interdisciplinary team including women with HIV.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the majority of the research team being racially minoritised women.
Limitations
The study primarily included cisgender women, limiting the diversity of experiences captured.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily Black women with HIV, many of whom were from immigrant backgrounds.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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