RWERAMIRA,MARGARETH CLEMENT2025-02-192025-02-192011https://www.suaire.sua.ac.tz/handle/123456789/6586ThesisKnowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) on breastfeeding among HIV-infected mothers are important in determining the health and nutritional status of their children. The HIV pandemic and the risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV, especially through breastfeeding (BF) poses special difficulties to HIV-infected mothers, their infants and the community. This study was designed to assess KAP on breastfeeding among HIV-infected mothers having children aged 0-12 months living in Kibaha Town Council. A cross-sectional, descriptive study design was employed and convenient sampling procedure was used to select the respondents. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaire which were administered by face to face interview. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) 15.0 version computer software. The study findings revealed that there is limitation in terms of KAP on BF, complementation and infant feeding options among the HIV-infected mothers. Breastfeeding was chosen by majority of respondents (96%) compared to replacement feeding (6%). About 76% of mothers ceased to practice EBF before their infants were six months old due to fear of MTCT of HIV. The study also revealed that mothers’ level of education was significantly associated with their knowledge (p = 0.00403). Mixed feeding (63.6%) and nipple cracks (77.8%) were the most known factors by the respondents to increase the risk of MTCT of HIV. Breast conditions such as sore/cracked nipples; fear of stigma; lack of counselling and follow up from the health workers; and cultural beliefs such as BF by using one breast were observed as the constraints faced by the respondents. Counselling services on infant feeding options, regular follow to mothers and more training to the counsellors on BF and PMTCT of HIV need to be strengthenedenAssessment of knowledgeBreastfeedingInfantsAttitudes and practicesThesis