Sociodemographic and Psychological Factors Influencing Human Milk Donation: A Cross-Sectional Study of 420 Lactating Mothers in Vijayapura

Abstract

Background Breastfeeding is crucial for infant health, but not all mothers can breastfeed due to various constraints. Making human milk banks (HMBs) is essential for providing donor milk to preterm and sick infants. Methods This is a cross-sectional study at Shri BM Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre in Vijayapura involving 420 lactating mothers. Convenience sampling and semi-standardized interviews were used to assess socio-demographics, maternal factors, and attitudes toward milk donation. Results Among the 420 lactating mothers surveyed, urban mothers were significantly more likely to have received breastfeeding counseling (56.7% vs. 41.4%) and were more aware of milk bank donations (20.0% vs. 11.4%) than rural mothers. Logistic regression analysis revealed that urban residence, higher education, and prior knowledge of milk donation were significant predictors of willingness to donate breast milk. Conclusion The findings emphasize the importance of education and awareness, particularly in rural areas, to promote milk donation. Addressing socio-economic disparities and sharing personal experiences can also encourage donations. Targeted educational programs are crucial for enhancing donation rates and improving newborn health outcomes, making milk donation a vital area for public health initiatives.

Keywords: breastfeeding; human milk banking; milk donation; neonatal health; public health; socio-demographic factors.