Breastmilk bank to operate next year to boost breastfeeding rates

The city plans to launch its first breastmilk bank and donation system by early 2025 to support new mothers and promote infant health.

Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for both infants and mothers, but Hong Kong has seen a decline in breastfeeding rates in recent years. 

According to data from public hospitals, the initial breastfeeding rate for newborns was 80 percent in 2023, but the exclusive breastfeeding rate when staying in the hospital dropped to just 19.7 percent, down from previous years.

The Department of Obstetrics of Kwong Wah Hospital explains that mothers often face challenges in breastfeeding and may give up without sufficient support. 

Misleading infant formula advertisements also give the wrong impression that formula can replace breast milk, the obstetricians added.

The planned breast milk bank aims to collect 1,000 liters of breast milk annually, which can benefit 450 to 600 premature infants. Donated milk will be pasteurized, tested, and distributed to nine public hospitals with neonatal intensive care units. 

According to obstetricians, the breast milk bank will help reduce the risk of complications for premature infants. Mothers who have persisted in breastfeeding also believe that the establishment of the bank will not lack donors.

Juliana, a mother of five, is enthusiastic about the breastmilk bank initiative. She breastfed each of her children for over nine months, finding the bonding experience deeply rewarding.

She believes the establishment of the bank will encourage more mothers to donate their excessive breast milk.