Breast milk banks established in various hospitals across Kerala have proven to be a major success. Currently operating at Kozhikode Medical College, Thrissur Medical College, and Ernakulam General Hospital, these banks have provided breast milk to 17,307 babies, thanks to donations from 4,673 mothers. Kozhikode leads with 11,441 beneficiaries, followed by Thrissur (4,870) and Ernakulam (996). Encouraged by this success, the government is now setting up additional milk banks at more hospitals like Thiruvananthapuram SAT Hospital and Kottayam Medical College aiming to extend the benefits to more newborns in need.

Breastfeeding Week is being observed from August 1 to 7, emphasizing the vital role of breast milk in safeguarding infant health. Early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months are crucial. However, situations like maternal infections, low birth weight infants, or mothers requiring ventilator support often prevent direct breastfeeding. To address this, the breast milk bank initiative ensures safe and screened donor milk reaches such vulnerable babies.

Milk is collected from willing and healthy breastfeeding mothers, rigorously processed, screened for infections, and then safely distributed. Donors include mothers admitted to hospitals, as well as mothers unable to nurse their own babies due to health issues. The milk, after thorough testing, can be frozen and preserved for months.

The Departments of Health and Women & Child Development are giving priority to breastfeeding promotion. Breastfeeding centers have been established in public spaces and hospitals, and the Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative is being implemented in 45 hospitals to ensure quality care and breastfeeding support.

Families play a crucial role in supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey, which is one of the most valuable gifts for a child’s health and development. Expanding breast milk banks statewide will not only help save lives but also break myths and misconceptions around breastfeeding, creating greater awareness in society.