Knowledge of Midwives in the Prevention of Vertical Transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Alfasher, North Darfur State, Sudan, 2024
Knowledge of Midwives in the Prevention of Vertical Transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Alfasher, North Darfur State, Sudan, 2024
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Date
2025-08
Authors
Mastoura Mohammed Hamid Adam
Mustafa Khidir Mustafa Elnimeiri
Amal Badawi Bushra
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Abstract
Background:
Vertical transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) refers to the transmission of HIV
from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Effective
prevention strategies are crucial to reducing the risk of this transmission. These strategies include
the primary prevention of HIV infection among young women, prevention of unintended
pregnancies in HIV-positive women, the use of antiretroviral drugs, and optimal management and
support for both HIV-infected individuals and their infants. This study aimed to assess the
knowledge of midwives regarding the prevention of vertical transmission of HIV.
Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted across six health centers and four Internally
Displaced Persons (IDP) camp clinics in Alfasher, North Darfur State, Sudan. A total of 79
midwives participated in the study, selected through simple random sampling. A questionnaire,
pre-tested by a pilot study was used. It covered participants' sociodemographic data, knowledge of
HIV/AIDS, vertical transmission and its prevention.
Results:
The study found that midwives had inadequate knowledge of HIV/AIDS, vertical transmission and
its prevention. About half of the participants reported that HIV/AIDS topics were not included in
their midwifery curriculum. Additionally, 61% stated that the Prevention of Mother-to-Child
Transmission (PMTCT) program was not implemented in their workplace, and 76% reported a
lack of essential supplies at their healthcare facilities.
Conclusion:
The study revealed a significant deficiency in midwives’ knowledge of HIV/AIDS, vertical
transmission and its prevention, highlighting a concerning knowledge gap regarding PMTCT of
HIV. The study recommends strengthening midwifery continuing education programs and
refresher courses focused on updated HIV protocols. Additionally, it is essential to ensure the
consistent availability of supplies at health facilities to support the prevention of mother-to-child
transmission of HIV
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Original article