Awareness, attitudes and barriers towards donor human milk banking: A cross-sectional study

Objectives: Donor human milk (DHM) is globally recognised as the preferred alternative when maternal milk is unavailable, especially for pre-term and low birth weight infants. Human milk banks (HMBs) ensure safe collection, screening, pasteurisation, storage and distribution of milk under strict protocols. Awareness, attitudes and perceived barriers are pivotal in sustaining donor recruitment and HMB programs. The objective of this study is to assess awareness, attitudes, and barriers regarding DHM and HMB among mothers and nursing officers in a tertiary hospital, and to identify predictors of willingness to donate. Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted amongst postnatal mothers and nursing officers using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals were reported. Results: Of 100 participants (92 mothers, 8 nursing officers), 77% had heard of DHM, 51% knew its benefits and 71% were aware of the hospital’s HMB. Among mothers, 58% expressed a willingness to donate, 29% were unsure, and 5% declined. Barriers included lack of awareness (75%), cultural/social stigma (27%) and safety concerns (26%). Independent predictors of willingness were prior awareness of DHM (aOR 10.70, P = 0.0026), comfort with DHM use (aOR 4.91, P = 0.017) and knowledge of benefits (aOR 4.74, P = 0.021). Conclusion: Willingness to donate was influenced by awareness, knowledge and comfort with DHM. Targeted education, peer support and transparent communication about safety may improve donor recruitment and strengthen HMB programs.