Question
Can I mix feed?
3 May 2020. Related: All topics, Children.
I have a 10 weeks old infant and she tested negative at birth. However I\'m having sleepless nights, waiting in anticipation for her results as she got tested again when I took her for her 10 weeks vaccination. When I gave birth the doctor advised that I could mix feed since my CD4 count is 889 and viral load is undetectable but the nurse disagreed and said I should choose one so I chose breastfeeding. However, I have not disclosed my status at home and my mom constantly insists on mix feeding,solid feeding (cerealec) and giving her medication (Muthi wenyonyi,Qhuma,Lenon medicines,Panado,gripe water and Scott Emulsion) and now I’ve decided to stop breastfeeding once and for all. What are the chances of my daughter’s results coming out positive?
Answer
Thanks for getting in touch.
What your doctor told you is wrong. Babies born to HIV positive mothers need to be either formula fed or breastfed. However, guidelines on which method to use vary depending on where it is that a woman lives. For example in the UK where i-base are based, women aren’t advised to breastfeed. However, in South Africa they are as long as their viral load is undetectable.
The important thing is that babies need to be either be formula feed or breastfeed, not both.
You’ve mentioned that your baby is also being give solids. Your baby is too young to be given solids and this includes porridge. Introducing solids too early can increase the risk of a baby being positive. Therefore, this is something that you’re going to need to think about.
Your child is being given a lot of things that they simply do not need. Unless your child is unwell all they need is milk and milk alone.
If your child is taking ARVs, (which they should be as your breastfeeding) you need to be careful of possible interactions. This is why it’s important to talk to your childs doctor first before giving them any other medication.
If you aren’t ready to tell your family about your status, this is of course up to you. You do however need to be very clear with them about what your baby can and can’t have.
Hello Kay and thanks for getting in touch.
Congratulations on your baby!!! You must be very happy!!!
In the UK the guidelines also suggest breast milk or formula but we also know that sometimes mixed feeding is taking place without any risk for the baby.
It is absolutely ok to proceed with just formula, if your work or other commitments are keeping you away or you don’t have enough milk.
Your baby will be happier if it’s not feeling hungry.
As long as you are taking your medication and you are undetectable, this is absolutely the best thing you can do for your baby and yourself.
The choice of feeding is up to you and what will work better both for you and your baby.
You can read more here:
https://i-base.info/guides/pregnancy/feeding-your-baby
and here (this includes links to the UK guidance about breastfeeding in 2 very informative leaflets for mothers):
https://i-base.info/qa/25786
Hi
I m a HIV positive mom. I just gave birth last week to a negative baby and she is been on zido and nev. I have been mixed feeding my baby since my milk supply is low but learnt it’s bad for her when we went for our first postnatal visit and I m scared. I told my mom about it but didn’t reveal my status to her but she insist we mix feed since I will be traveling out of the country next month without the baby. What should I do please. Cause I don’t wanna risk the life of my innocent baby.
Hi…i give my baby formula for first 4days of birth then switch to breastfeeding only any risk?
Hi Vuyisile, it is always good to check your feeding plans with your clinic as these can vary in different countries. If your viral load is undetectable then switching once from one to the other will be okay. But please check with your clinic about breastfeeding.