Kerala doctors push for expansion of human milk banking network

Medical professionals in Kerala have renewed calls for expanding the state's human milk banking infrastructure, citing persistent gaps in donor participation that compromise care for vulnerable newborns. The push comes as Comprehensive Lactation Management Centres (CLMCs) across the state struggle to attract sufficient milk donations despite the proven health benefits of breast milk for premature and sick infants.

According to paediatricians working with the centres, multiple factors contribute to the shortfall in donor recruitment. Lack of public awareness about milk banking programmes ranks among the primary obstacles, alongside entrenched social stigma surrounding breast milk donation and widespread misconceptions about the donation process and its safety protocols.

Human milk banks play a critical role in neonatal care, particularly for infants unable to receive milk from their own mothers. The screened, processed donor milk serves as a vital nutritional resource for premature babies and those with medical complications, improving health outcomes and reducing infection risks.

Medical experts contend that scaling up these facilities requires a multi-pronged approach including targeted awareness campaigns, community education programmes, and efforts to counter misinformation. Healthcare workers have also stressed the need for standardized protocols and proper training to ensure safety and build public confidence in the donation system.

The Kerala health department has not yet announced concrete plans to address the expansion calls, though paediatricians continue to advocate for increased investment in lactation services and milk banking infrastructure across the state.