Perspectives and experiences of women, donors, recipient mothers and health care professionals regarding human milk donation: A systematic review of qualitative studies

Abstract

<p>Objective: <a>To examine and synthesize the views and experiences of women, recipients and healthcare professionals on human milk donation or sharing.</a></p><p>Methods: The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) approach to systematic reviews of qualitative studies was followed. Six databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Scopus were searched in March 2022. The JBI meta-aggregative approach was used to analyze the data and synthesize findings. </p><p>Results: 446 papers were included initial screening and 32 studies were included. Seven synthesized findings were: (i) Altruistic motivations for donating, but donor milk nurtures both donors and recipients physiologically and emotionally ; (ii) Psychological and practical difficulties to ensure the quality and quantity of breast milk; (iii) Formal and informal human milk sharing affect choice of milk sharing practices; (iv) Self-experience and external environmental factors that impede or facilitate awareness and participation; (v) Concerns on the quality and quantity of human milk and the infant bonding with donors or sharers; (vi) Challenges experienced by HMBs especially during Covid-19 pandemic; (viii) Suggestions on donor compensation and human milk promotion.</p><p>Conclusions: Participants in human milk donation and sharing include donors, recipients and staff face various physical, mental and practical challenges, however they also reap the benefits, the consensus that it's worth it. Informal sharing complements formal donations, in which both can improve breastfeeding rates. A gap exists in advocacy and education are still needed to improve participation and safety level.<br></p>