![]() These beliefs existed alongside mothers’ opinions on breastfeeding (BF) and HIV infection, as well as the fears of harming the baby through HIV infection, leading to early cessation of BF. Traditional and cultural beliefs and norms that exist within their communities informed decisions mothers took to EBF. We found evidence of factors that influence the decision to EBF and mix feed infants among mothers. Mothers were aged between 18 and 42 years, most were unemployed and were living in poor sociodemographic backgrounds in extended family households. ![]() Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and transcripts were analysed through thematic analysis using NVivo version 10. Three focus group discussions and twelve in-depth interviews were conducted among thirty mothers who were purposively selected during their visits to the facilities for childcare services. The purpose of the study was to explore the experiences of mothers who are HIV-positive and negative on EBF and examine the extent to which initiation and sustenance of EBF is influenced by cultural beliefs, societal norms, and family norms and practices in Mpumalanga Province. Thus, South Africa continues to observe suboptimal and poor practices of EBF. ![]() Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is not a norm in many communities in South Africa despite the World Health Organizations’ recommendations for EBF in the first six months of infant’s life. ![]()
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