Question
I’ve HIV and just had a baby, should I use formula?
25 October 2016. Related: All topics, Children, Disclosure, South Africa.
hi. I’m hiv positive and have given birth 5days ago. I’m currently on tribuss and undetectable. My family is too judgemental so i have not told anyone about my status. I’m feeding my baby formula but the problem is she has not pooped for 2days now and my family keeps on saying its because of formula i should breastfeed. I want to know if it is still safe for me to breastfeed even if i started by giving formula.
Answer
Congratulations on the birth of your child.
I appreciate that it can be hard to tell people about your status. You may also feel under more pressure because of having a baby. Because you are on treatment, how you choose to feed your child is your decision. The following though may help:
With regards to your baby pooing, this is normal in newborns. If however, you are concerned please talk to a doctor.
Good luck.
Hi Khukhu,
Solid food feeding guidelines vary depending on where someone lives. In the UK babies are introduced to solids when they are 6 months old. Babies born to positive mothers shouldn’t be given solids when they are very young.
Hi my baby is about 4months now and he’s hiv exposed.. Can I give him solid food now?.. Will the food distract his well being?
Hi Sylvy,
The question on breastfeeding depends on what country you live in. Please see this question about the safest way to feed my baby.
As Angelina says here, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended because mixed feeding, using both formula and breastmilk, carries a greater risk of transmission.
Please tell your doctor if you are worried about your own situation so that you can have this discussion in detail. Your doctor can give you the best advice about feeding your baby.
Hey
Is using formula for baby’s cereal or porridge also considered as mixfeeding if you are breastfeeding
Hi Unknown,
Guidelines relation to infant feeding vary depending on where someone lives. However, if you want to switch to formula then you can. Once on formula then your baby shouldn’t need the ARVs. However, please discuss this with your childs doctor first.
hi
does it matter which feeding u feed ur baby they have 2 take meds.im hiv + breastfeeding my baby but thinking of switching to formula since i will be going back 2 work soon do i continue giving the baby cipla nivaropin? my baby is 9 weeks
Hi Khukhu,
Yes, that should be fine. But it’s recommended that you feed your baby with only formula once you switch. Mix feeding with both breastmilk and formula can increase the risk to your baby.
But it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. You can get advice on the best way to feed your baby now you’re back at work.
Hi my viral load is less than 50 and I’m breastfeeding my baby but the problem is that I’m going back to work can I switch him to formula
Hi Nikiwe,
Congratulations on having a new baby boy.
Please speak to the doctor or nurse about the best way to feed him. But to be safe, feeding should be only with breast milk, or only with formula milk. That’s because mixed feeding, with both breastmilk and formula, carries an increased risk of HIV transmission.
But please discuss this with your doctor. They can help you with advice and support.
Hi im nikiwe im hiv positive and my baby boy is 5 weeks old im breast feeding my baby is it safe if i give my baby formula milk will i not put my baby on risk