“Breastfeeding is difficult”: a qualitative exploration of exclusive breastfeeding among HIV-positive mothers in Eldoret, Kenya

Creating an empathetic and supportive community for HIV-positive mothers opting to breastfeed is necessary to improve EBF uptake. Although progress has been made to implement EBF guidelines, building individual confidence and a supportive environment, both within health facilities and in communities, is paramount for these mothers. This includes dispelling community misconceptions about the risks of breastfeeding with HIV. This study serves as a call to action, highlighting structural barriers and urging collective efforts to foster a transformative environment for HIV-positive mothers and their infants.