Abstract:

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate and understand the barriers that contribute to successful uptake and implementation of Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) services for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers at Mulanje Mission Hospital in Malawi.

Methods: A Qualitative study was conducted with data collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. A total of 64 participants were interviewed.

Results: The main barriers to uptake and implementation of PMTCT services were stigma and discrimination against those infected with HIV, traditional and religious beliefs, long waiting time at PMTCT clinic, lack of male involvement, opposition from male partner leading to divorce and gender-based violence and lack of privacy due to non-conducive infrastructure.

Conclusion: In order to promote successful uptake and implementation of PMTCT service, male involvement in reproductive issues has to be enhanced by raising community awareness. In addition, HIV testing and counseling should also be an agenda of community awareness so that women should not wait to be pregnant and then go for testing. Issues of stigma and discrimination should be dealt with during campaign and community meeting with chiefs. Staffing in health facilities should be improved to minimize the waiting time and also improve the quality of care given.

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