Title:
Socio-cultural Factors Influence the Uptake of the Prevention of Mother-to-child Transmission (PMTCT) Program: A Critical Ethnographic Study

Authors:
Joyce Kamanzi, Solina M. Richter, Canada

Abstract:

Addressing the socio-cultural factors is key to prevent Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV. The authors explore socio-cultural factors that influence the uptake of the PMTCT program among HIV+ women in Rwanda. A qualitative critical ethnographic study was conducted among 29 HIV+ women and 26 healthcare providers, policymakers, PMTCT leaders from 2020 to 2021. Intersectionality framework guided this research. A purposeful sampling was used to select the research participants. Data were collected using observation, field-notes, individual and focus group interviews, and document review. The data analysis was performed concurrently with data collection and included reflexivity and thematic analysis. ATLAS.ti software version nine was used to facilitate analysis and organize data.

The effort to limit the number of MTCT of HIV have been global and can be attributed to rapid HIV testing during pregnancy, antiretroviral (ARV) adherence, uptake of the PMTCT program, and the counseling on infant feeding. The elements from social and cultural characteristics, including religious beliefs, interfering with the experiences, decisions, and behaviors of HIV+ women during the infant feeding choice. It is not enough to provide ARVs and counselling to HIV+ mother but beliefs, attitudes, and practices of families and community members that will interact with and negatively affect the uptake and efficacy of the PMTCT program and ARV adherence, also need to be addressed. traditional practices, religious beliefs, and infant feeding were associated with the PMTCT uptake. It is important to consider community and social factors for the accessibility and effectiveness of the PMTCT program related interventions.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.51505/ijmshr.2023.7401