Background Despite the steps taken by the Government of Ghana towards preventing or eliminating mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV in line with key international recommendations and guidelines, MTCT of HIV prevalence rate still remain high in the rural Upper West region of Ghana. This study explored the perspectives of rural women on circumstances that may facilitate HIV transmission and prevention in a high MTCT of HIV prevalence districts.

Methods Qualitative methods involving 6 focus group discussions were conducted using semi-structured interview guide in three rural districts. A purposeful sampling method was used to select eligible participants. The data were analyzed using a thematic framework approach.

Results The study findings show that all participants have heard of HIV and AIDS. Both pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers’ had knowledge that HIV can be transmitted from the mother to the child. With regards to specific transmission routes and stages of transmission, during pregnancy, during labour and delivery and through breastfeeding were mentioned. However, knowledge on MTCT was inadequate since some participants did know that wet-nursing was one of the transmission routes. Wet-nursing practices were prevalent in these communities. Some reasons given for the practice included initial breast milk of the mother not good for the baby’s consumption or health because it is dirty or contaminated. To get rid of the initial milk, a breastfeeding mother is engaged to breastfeed (wet-nurse) the new-born as custom demands until the so-called dirty breast milk is gotten rid of. Other traditional risky practices were circumcision and giving of tribal marks to the newborn by traditional birth attendants.

Conclusion The findings of our study revealed that traditional practices which could have negative outcomes on maternal and child health are still carried out in the study settings. Interventions that seek to change social behaviours by addressing cultural norms is desirable.

Disclosure No significant relationships.