The Unsung Heroes: The Profile of the Donor at a Southern Italian Milk Bank and Driving Factors in Human Milk Donation
2024

Profile of Donors at a Southern Italian Milk Bank

Sample size: 593 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Quitadamo Pasqua Anna, Comegna Laura, Zambianco Federica, Palumbo Giuseppina, Copetti Massimiliano, Gentile Maria Assunta, Mondelli Antonio, Beghetti Isadora, Corvaglia Luigi, Noble Lawrence M., Hand Ivan

Primary Institution: Human Milk Bank, NICU Ospedale “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

Hypothesis

What factors influence the volume and duration of human milk donation?

Conclusion

The study identified that maternal age, occupation, type of delivery, and gestational age significantly impact the volume and duration of milk donations.

Supporting Evidence

  • 60% of donors are multiparous.
  • Maternal age significantly influences both the volume and duration of milk donation.
  • The type of delivery impacts the volume of donated milk.
  • There has been a decline in the number of donors over time.
  • Trends in both the quantity and duration of milk donations have remained stable over the past decade.

Takeaway

Most milk donors are women over 30 who have had multiple children and previous breastfeeding experience, and their donations have remained stable over time.

Methodology

Data were collected from the milk bank database and hospitalization medical records over 13 years, assessing various maternal and neonatal factors.

Limitations

The study is monocentric and does not explore the motivations behind milk donation.

Participant Demographics

The majority of donors are women aged 31-35, mostly multiparous, with previous breastfeeding experience.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/children11121502

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