Otoo, G.E.Marquis, G.S.Sellen, D.W.Chapman, D.J.Pérez-Escamilla, R.2019-04-252019-04-252010-05https://doi.org/10.1177/0890334409348214Volume: 26 issue: 2, page(s): 107-117http://ugspace.ug.edu.gh/handle/123456789/29583This is a longitudinal cohort study investigating the association between maternal HIV status and the reported onset of lactation. The Research to Improve Infant Nutrition and Growth project recruited 442 mothers from 3 antenatal clinics in the eastern region of Ghana, based on positive, negative, and unknown HIV status. Onset of lactation was assessed by maternal perception and validated with 2 subsamples: measurement of infant breast milk intake (n = 40) and daily infant weight measurement for 2 weeks (n = 150). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of very early onset of lactation (onset of lactation < 6 hours). Predictors of very early onset of lactation include HIV-negative status (odds ratio = 2.68; P =.014), multiparity (odds ratio = 2.93; P =.009), vaginal delivery (odds ratio = 2.55; P =.035), and having a male child (odds ratio = 1.86; P =.032). The findings indicate an association between maternal HIV status and very early onset of lactation. © 2010 International Lactation Consultant Association.enExclusive breastfeedingGhanaHIVOnset of lactationArticle