Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT)
at Bamenda Regional Hospital, North West Cameroon
About the project
This project aims to prevent the transmission of the HIV virus from mothers to their babies. HIV positive pregnant women are invited to the project, as well as women who have given birth at the hospital (but who had not previously registered). There are effective ways to prevent transmission including Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission projects (PMTCT). The PMTCT projects:
- provide the opportunity to prevent infection
- provide the opportunity to identify and provide care for HIV exposed and infected children and their mothers/families
Such support for mothers is vital in improving not only their health but the health and survival of their babies.
Dr Frida (paediatrician) works with MCAI to ensure that all HIV positive mothers delivering a baby in the hospital are counselled about feeding, medication, and that their babies are followed up and tested for the virus at the appropriate time. Babies who are known to be HIV positive are closely monitored, and given anti-retroviral drugs, vitamins and other supplements when necessary.
The transmission of HIV from mother to child in sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 95% of all cases of childhood HIV
In 2008, 199 mothers were registered on the project. 12% of their babies were found to be HIV positive. Without the interventions of the project it would be expected that over 30% of the babies would have been born HIV positive.
The nurses also run a monthly support group for HIV positive mothers. The mothers find the emotional and practical support they receive very helpful in coping with their own illness and their anxiety about their child's exposure to the illness.
A 25 year old mother, Sara who had recently given birth, attended the clinic. She was invited to the clinic to talk with one of the nurses who explained the project and how it could help her. She was confused as to whether she should breastfeed or use formula. This is part of the counselling and advice given. With breastfeeding there is a one in four chance of contracting HIV, but the cost of powdered milk is very high. The two options are discussed so that each mother can decide what is best for her situation. Sara made her first appointment for five weeks time when her baby will be given a PCR test (to test whether her baby is HIV positive).
Supported by The Positive Action for Children Fund