Mother - to - Child Transmission ( MTCT ) of Human Immunodeficiency Virus ( HIV )

Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT) of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a confirmed source of HIV infection in pediatrics. An estimated 90% of pediatrics acquired HIV infection during pregnancy, labour, delivery and breastfeeding. Generally, HIV/AIDS is one among the global public health problem, that over two decades has continue to constitute a serious threat to the social mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of African mothers and their babies especially in the sub-Saharan African and in Nigeria. More than 60% of all new HIV infections are occurring in women and children, due to the disproportionate burden place on the woman and her child, who may continue to experience high rate of new infection. It is on this note that this paper examined some of the significant hurdles hindering prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) in the country such as: Less or non education, unknown status, unplanned pregnancy, socio-cultural factors, Delayed Antennal Care, Stigma and Discrimination that has created the gaps in PMTCT and its Health Implications such as increase Incidence, Prevalence rate, increase Morbidity and Mortality, Poor efficiency and economic output, and a Uncertain future for the developing countries. The paper suggested that, programme planners of (PMTCT) should take into consideration the individual, family, and societal factor hindering PMTCT for possible acceptance of the programme by all, for successful elimination of MTCT. Services should be made accessible to all women especially those in the rural areas. Strategies that will improve utilization of health services by rural dwellers should be promoted.