International Journal of Nursing

Perceptions of Breastfeeding Mothers on Breast Milk Donation and Establishment of Human Breast Milk Bank in Hong Kong: A Qualitative Study
Joyce Chung Yin LEUNG, Sui Yu YAU

Abstract
The benefits of breastfeeding to both babies and mothers are proven. Several well-established breast milk banks exist worldwide to provide donated breast milk for babies, especially those who were born preterm or sick, or those whose mothers have inadequate milk supply. However, no official breast milk bank or channel for milk donation has been established in Hong Kong and limited information is available on the perceptions of breastfeeding mothers about breast milk donation and breast milk banks. The aim of this study is to explore the perceptions on breast milk donation and establishment of breast milk banks among breastfeeding mothers in Hong Kong. A qualitative study adopting in-depth semi-structured interviews was conducted. Ten breastfeeding mothers were invited through purposive sampling from a local breastfeeding self-support group in Hong Kong. Content analysis was performed and four themes were identified. The results revealed that participants expressed positive views on breast milk donation and the establishment of breast milk bank in Hong Kong. Further studies are recommended to examine the views of healthcare professionals regarding this issue.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/ijn.v2n2a9