Population Council Research that makes a difference

Abstract

Integrating quality postnatal care into PMTCT in Swaziland (HTML) 
Mazia,Goldy; Narayan,I.; Warren,Charlotte; Mahdi,Mohammed; Chibuye,P.; Walligo,A.; Mabuza,P.; Shongwe,Rachel; Hainsworth,M.
Global Public Health 4(3): 253-270
Publication date: 2009

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Swaziland's prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) program is linked to maternal and newborn health (MNH) services, but is mainly focused 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 percent in HIV-positive mothers and 52 percent in HIV-negative mothers. Cotrimoxazole prophylaxis for HIV-exposed infants increased by 24 percent. Although health workers were observed providing counseling, maternal recall of messages was deficient, suggesting the need for additional strategies for promoting healthy behaviors. High-quality integrated PMTCT programs 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.

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