Question
Is there a risk of transmission if breastfeeding and my breast is cracked?
28 November 2021. Related: All topics, Children, HIV transmission, South Africa.
I recently gave birth and still to test my baby at 6 weeks. I gave birth via C-section. During my clinical appointment they checked my blood and my viral load was suppressed. The problem is at hospital I was forced to breastfeed, I then noticed on the third day that my breast is cracked. I’m scared she might have sucked blood, I immediately stopped breastfeeding her and have been exclusively breastfeeding since. She’s on nevirapine, should I be worried about the cracked breast?
Answer
Hi, how are you doing? Congratulations on your new baby.
As you have a suppressed viral load, and your baby is on Nevirapine it is very unlikely your baby will be HIV positive. In south Africa, WHO guidelines do recommend only breastfeeding. Though, in the UK it is to use formula as this reduces the risk completely.
There is no need to be worrying about your cracked breast in regards to your baby. Though, having it looked at by a doctor for your own health is just as important.
If you have another question do ask,
Josh.
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