Milksharing

Milksharing refers to the practice of obtaining or providing human breast milk from sources other than a baby's own mother. This can involve direct breastfeeding between a baby and a non-maternal lactating woman, or the donation and exchange of expressed milk. Milksharing is often sought by mothers who are unable to produce enough milk for their babies, or who wish to supplement their own milk.

The practice can occur informally between friends and family, or through more organized channels. Informal milksharing arrangements typically involve direct communication and trust between the donor and recipient. Formal milksharing may involve milk banks, which are regulated facilities that screen donors and process, store, and distribute milk to infants in need, particularly premature or ill babies.

Concerns regarding milksharing often center on the potential transmission of infectious diseases, medications, and environmental contaminants. This is why screened and pasteurized milk from milk banks is considered the safest option. When informal milksharing occurs, experts recommend that recipients discuss the health status and medication use of the donor with them, and ideally, that the donor has been screened for infectious diseases.

The decision to participate in milksharing, either as a donor or recipient, is a personal one that should be made after careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks, and ideally with guidance from healthcare professionals.