Integrating quality postnatal care into PMTCT in Swaziland
Document Type
Article (peer-reviewed)
Publication Date
2009
Abstract
Swaziland's prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programme is linked to maternal and newborn health (MNH) services, but is mainly focussed on HIV/AIDS. Existing MNH services are inadequate, especially postnatal care (PNC) of mothers and babies, with delayed postnatal visits occurring at 4-6 weeks after delivery. Fifty-seven percent of staff in seven Swazi health facilities were trained in promoting and providing early PNC. A final evaluation showed a 20-fold increase in the number of visits coming for an early postnatal visit (within the first three days after birth). A direct observation of the client-provider interaction showed a significant increase in the competence of the health workers related to postnatal examinations, and care of mothers and babies (p < 0.05- < 0.01). The percentage of women breastfeeding within one hour of delivery increased by 41% in HIV-positive mothers and 52% in HIV-negative mothers. Cotrimoxazole prophylaxis for HIV-exposed infants increased by 24%. Although, health workers were observed providing counselling, maternal recall of messages was deficient, suggesting the need for additional strategies for promoting healthy behaviours. High-quality integrated PMTCT programmes and MNH postnatal services are feasible and acceptable, and can result in promoting early postnatal visits and improved care of both HIV-positive and HIV-negative mothers and their babies.
Recommended Citation
Mazia, Goldy, I. Narayan, Charlotte E. Warren, Mohammed Mahdi, P. Chibuye, A. Walligo, P. Mabuza, Rachel Shongwe, and M. Hainsworth. 2009. "Integrating quality postnatal care into PMTCT in Swaziland," Global Public Health 4(3): 253–270.
DOI
10.1080/17441690902769669
Language
English