Table 4.

Themes and subthemes on reasons for infant feeding choices of women with HIV

Themes	Subthemes
Health workers’ recommendations	• Advised by health workers to breastfeed for at least six months. • Advised by nurse that breast milk is the best option for the baby. • Advised by nurse that breast milk is healthy and prevents diseases. • Recommended by doctor to formula feed as there is 25% chance of infection through breastfeeding.
Perceived benefits of breastfeeding	• Best choice. • Good for the baby. • Baby will grow fast. • Unaffordability of formula. • Breast milk is cheap. • Breast milk makes baby strong. • I love to breast milk • Breast milk helps prevent baby from getting becoming sick or getting infections • It is the healthiest and the most nutritious option • Baby will have strong muscle • Previous experience was good • Want to experience breastfeeding for the first time • Breast feeding connects the mother to the baby
Work/school related	• Returning to school • Returning to work • Looking for employment • Farm work is too much and won’t be able to stay with the baby
Fear of transmitting the infection to their babies	• I am scared to breastfeed because the baby will be infected
Breast related issues	• Breast milk not secreting/flowing • Painful breast • Breasts have warts
Other reasons	• Baby refused to suck • Forced • Domestic violence • Wanted to give baby up for adoption • Advised by mum/spouse • No reason