Breast Milk Banking Among Postnatal Mothers: A Literature Review

Author Name: Ms. Nita Patel, Ms. Rinku Bariya, Mr. Chandrika Bariya, Ms. Meghana Baria, Ms. Sonalkumari Baghel, Ms. Nita Ahire

Volume: 03/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/09.2025-99968923/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. Assistant Professor, Parul institute of Nursing, Parul university, Vadodara, Gujarat, India.
2. Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Students, Parul institute of Nursing, Parul university, Vadodara, Gujarat, India.

ABSTRACT

Objective: This literature review aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of postnatal mothers regarding breast milk banking, and to identify barriers and facilitators influencing milk donation. Methodology: A structured review of studies published in the last 10 years was conducted, focusing on awareness, cultural perceptions, and practical engagement in breast milk donation. Both quantitative and qualitative research articles involving postnatal mothers were included. Data were analysed to identify common patterns and outcomes. Results: The review found that knowledge about breast milk banking remains low, with only 18–32% of mothers aware of the concept. Higher awareness was linked to antenatal counselling and NICU exposure. Attitudes improved significantly with education, as willingness to donate increased from 40% to over 80% after short counselling sessions. However, actual donation rates were low (5–12%), primarily due to cultural stigma, fear of insufficient milk, and lack of access to milk banks. Conclusion: There is a clear gap between awareness and practice. Targeted health education, culturally sensitive counselling, and improved infrastructure are essential to increase participation in milk donation. Strengthening these areas can support the expansion of human milk banking and contribute to better neonatal outcomes.

Key words: Breast Milk Banking, Human Milk Donation, Postnatal Mothers, Neonatal Health, Maternal Awareness, Healthcare Practices.