Question
Is it OK to mix feed a baby?
2 January 2020. Related: All topics, Children.
Good day, I was diagnosed with HIV in 2016 after finding out I was pregnant. I have been on ARVs since. My first child is HIV negative and I did not breastfeed. I recently gave birth to my second baby but I have been mix feeding her. I did some research and I’m nervous that my child might get the virus because of mix feeding although the doctor or nurse never told me to breastfeed exclusively. My viral load is undetectable but I want to know if it is safe to continue with mix feeding or should I just give her formula?
Answer
Thanks for getting in touch.
Mixed feeding with babies who are born to HIV positive mothers isn’t recommended, this is even if the mothers viral load is undetectable. This is due to the slight risk of infection.
Infant feeding guidelines vary depending on where it is that someone lives. In the UK, (where i-base are based) breastfeeding isn’t recommended. However, in other countries, for example South Africa, breastfeeding is advised as long as a mothers viral load is undetectable.
You’re going to need to decide which one works for you and your baby. Consulting your doctor is also advisable.
Hello Annie and thanks for getting in touch.
Congratulations on your baby – sounds like she is doing very well.
There is no reason to worry. So far, so good.
Your baby will be tested many times and that depends on the guidelines in every country.
A lot of mums live with HIV and choose to breastfeed their babies.
And most of those babies live healthy, HIV-free lives.
The most important thing is for you to take your medication, which you have done, and to have an undetectable viral load, which you have had.
There is no reason to believe that you and your baby will be the exception.
Please don’t worry, I amm sure everything will be alright
My baby tested negative 3 times and I was breastfeeding her, my viral load was suppressed but I’m asking because it’s 18 months and I don’t know what the test would be, I feel like if she tests positive I ruined her life so please help
Hi I’m an hiv + mom I’m on ART and currently breastfeeding but my mom has been giving my baby porridge and he’s 1 month and his pcr results were negative so should I be worried since my mom has been giving my baby porridge too.
Hi Simba – thanks – and congratulations on your new baby. The doctor is giving you good advice. You baby gets most benefit from breast milk during the first few months. Then, depending on your circumstances and where you live, it is better to change to formula milk before weaning to solid food after about 6 months.
Good evening, i just find out that I’m HIV positive last year while I was already pregant then i gave birth early this year and the baby he’s negative. The doctor instructed me to use way of breastfeeding and then now i went back after 3 to 4 weeks and the doctor instruct me to use both ways to feed the baby. Please help me is it safe to the baby?