Causes of breast milk loss in human milk collection centers

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding is essential for child development and provides significant benefits for both mothers and infants. The donation of human milk is vital for the nutrition of vulnerable newborns; however, losses resulting from nonconformities compromise its effectiveness. Issues such as dirtiness, acidity, and contamination negatively affect the quality of donated milk. Objective: To identify the causes of losses and nonconformities in human milk at Human Milk Collection Centers (PCLH). Method: This was an ecological study with a quantitative approach, based on the analysis of nonconformity report data from 2023 to 2024 at the Human Milk Collection Center of Lauro Wanderley University Hospital (CAAE 84805624.0.0000.5183). A structured instrument was used to record variables such as volume donated, dirtiness, acidity, contamination, viable and non-viable milk. Results: The sample included 911 donors, classified as exclusive or general. Exclusive donors provided milk for their own hospitalized newborns, while general donors donated to any newborn in need. The majority of donations (72.75%) came from general donors, totaling 554,798 liters, while exclusive donors contributed 207,811 liters (27.25%). Of the total volume of 762,609 liters, only 259,936 liters (34.09%) met quality standards, while 502,673 liters (65.91%) showed nonconformities—mainly due to dirtiness (55.38%) and acidity (10.53%). Conclusion: Human Milk Banks and Collection Centers play a crucial role in neonatal health by ensuring the supply of breast milk to at-risk infants. The study revealed significant milk losses, particularly due to dirtiness and acidity. Investing in the training of professionals, good milking practices, hygiene, storage, and the use of monitoring technologies is essential. Raising awareness among donors and strengthening public policies can reduce losses, optimize the use of collected milk, and promote the well-being of the newborns who benefit from it.