Motivators and Barriers to the Use of Breast Milk Banks: A Narrative Review

Aim: To summarize the scientific evidence on motivations and barriers to human milk banking by donor and recipient mothers. Materials and methods: A narrative review of articles in PubMed published between 2014 and 2024 was conducted. The search identified 405 articles, of which 5 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed in detail. Results: The results show that lack of access to trained personnel and lack of knowledge about donated human milk (DHM) are significant barriers to the use of human milk bank (HMB). In addition, strict donation requirements and logistical concerns hinder maternal participation. However, excess milk production and social support, along with increased awareness of the benefits of human milk donation, are key motivators for this practice. Conclusion: The use of HMBs by both donor and recipient mothers depends on various aspects of themselves, their environment and even the norms or procedures established by the health institution.