The second prong in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) is to prevent unintended pregnancies among women who are living with HIV.⁶  Postpartum family planning (PPFP) is key in PMTCT to promote the healthy spacing of pregnancies through family planning.

Many women living with HIV are only offered condoms, as health workers may believe this is the only safe option. However, because people living with HIV may not use condoms all of the time, providers need to be up-to-date on other methods and promote dual use. In addition, MCHIP promotes the HIV and Infant feeding Guidelines 2010 developed by WHO, UNAIDS, UNFPA and UNICEF that promote exclusive breastfeeding in low-resource countries for all mothers of infants younger than 6 months, inclusive of those living with HIV.

------------------------------

⁶ UNICEF. Taking Evidence to Impact: Making a Difference for Vulnerable Children Living in a World with HIV and AIDS. 2011.