Question
My family are giving my baby water, is this OK?
4 April 2017. Related: All topics, Children.
I’m HIV+ mother and my baby is 3wèeks old . My CD4 count was 311 and undetectable viral load. I’m breastfeeding her and my family don;t know about my status. She tested HIV – n. Shes taking her meds as well (nvp). My worry is that now my mom believe the baby needs water so we giving her water almost every day and my breast milk is not enough for her as shes always sucking me. They say she doesn’t get full so we must feed her. I would to know what are the chances of my baby being HIV +
Answer
Thanks for getting in touch.
And congratulations on the birth of your daughter. Its also great to hear that she’s already tested negative.
Your family giving your daughter won’t influence her possible status. However, babies who are this young don’t need water. What they need is milk, and milk alone. If you feel like you aren’t producing enough milk, you may need to change to formula. However, if you do this, you must not mix feed.
The best thing to do would be to speak to your babies doctor. They will be able to tell you if she’s growing or not. If its any help some babies suckle more than others.
Hello Merriam and thank you for the question.
Please follow the advice your doctor has given you about your baby and don’t give any medication that have not been discussed with a healthcare professional.
Please note: if your baby is unwell you need to ask professional advice.
Hello I’m hiv positive and my baby is 3months old and she’s on medication. We haven’t got the result yet so my worry is that she has fever. Should i give her capol? Or any medicine?
Hi Ericar, please talk to your doctor or clinic about feeding your baby. Babies only need milk and not solid food for the first six months.