Problems with the puerperal breast revealed by HIV-infected mothers

Abstract

Given the recommendation not to breastfeed their infants, HIV-positive women may experience breast problems. The aim of the study was to gain knowledge regarding breast health as revealed by HIV+ women before the non-breast-feeding. This qualitative study was performed with 15 mothers with HIV/ AIDS in Fortaleza, Brazil. Recorded interviews were transcribed and analyzed. The mothers revealed problems with their breasts following childbirth, such as engorgement and pain in the breasts. They revealed that they received instruction in the course of prenatal care not to breastfeed; however, there was no further instruction or care in the postpartum period. The use of lactation inhibitors and bandaging (binding) of the breast were reduced. Health professionals should adopt appropriate measures to guide HIV- positive parturient women. Health services need to broaden strategies to minimize the current emotional problems resulting from non-breast-feeding, as well as the discomfort in the puerperal breast.