Knowledge and perception of mother to child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus among South Eastern Nigerian pregnant women

Abstract

Context: The success of prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) requires the cooperation of the mother. The level of cooperation may depend on the extent of knowledge of pregnant women on HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), its mode of transmission to the child and ways of preventing it. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and perception of mother to child transmission (MTCT) of HIV among pregnant women receiving antenatal care in a university teaching hospital in South Eastern Nigeria. Settings and Design : This is a cross-sectional study in a teaching hospital. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 396 antenatal attendees, using a pre-tested, and interviewer administered questionnaires. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using the Epi Info statistical software and presented as percentages and tables. Results: All the respondents were aware of HIV/AIDS. The main sources of information were health workers (72.7%), radio (62.6%) and television (55.5%). Majority (94.9%) were aware that HIV can co-exist with pregnancy, but only 73.4% were aware of MTCT. Breast feeding (75.7%), transplacental (56.2%), and vaginal delivery (36.6%) were the main identified routes of transmission to the child. Some respondents (21%) however believe that cesarean section has a higher rate of vertical transmission relative to vaginal delivery. Giving the mother antiretroviral drugs (81.7%) and avoiding breast feeding (49%) were the major preventive ways identified by respondents. Some however believe that mixed feeding is one of the modes of preventing MTCT of HIV/AIDS. Conclusion: The awareness and knowledge of HIV/AIDS in the study population is high, but the knowledge and perceptions of PMTCT, is comparatively low.